재정 지원

Financial Support & Disability Benefits

Navigating disability benefits can feel overwhelming, especially when different programs have different eligibility requirements and application processes. This page brings together official resources, benefit information, and guidance to help you understand your options and take the next step with confidence.

Direct Action Toolkit

Skip the search. Access official application resources and account portals in one place.

Persons with Disabilites (PWD)

Apply for BC’s Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits through My Self Serve.

The PWD program provides monthly financial assistance and health benefits to eligible British Columbians who meet the disability criteria and requirements established by the Government of British Columbia.

Official Application:
https://myselfserve.gov.bc.ca/

Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a federal non-refundable tax credit that may reduce the amount of income tax owed by eligible individuals or supporting family members.

Learn about eligibility and download the official CRA Form T2201.

Official Application:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/forms-publications/forms/t2201.html

Community Living BC(CLBC)

Community Living BC (CLBC) provides support and services for eligible individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Find eligibility information, referrals, and application resources.

Official Website:
https://www.communitylivingbc.ca/

Track your application Provincial Benefits (PWD)

Sign in to My Self Serve to:

  • Check your application status
  • Upload requested documents
  • Send secure messages to your caseworker
  • Manage your benefits online

My Self Serve:
https://myselfserve.gov.bc.ca/

Federal benefits (CRA)

Sign in to CRA My Account to:

  • Track your Disability Tax Credit application
  • View notices and correspondence
  • Manage your CRA services online

CRA My Account:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/e-services-individuals/account-individuals.html

Understanding Disability Benefit Programs – Persons with Disabilities (PWD)

Persons with Disabilities (PWD) is a provincial income assistance program for eligible British Columbians who meet BC’s disability requirements.

The program may provide:

  • Monthly financial assistance
  • Health supplements
  • Dental and optical benefits
  • Medical equipment and transportation supports
  • Other disability-related supports

Eligibility is based on criteria established by the Government of British Columbia, including the impact of a disability on daily functioning.

Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a federal tax measure designed to provide tax relief to eligible individuals with disabilities or their supporting family members.

DTC approval may also be an important eligibility requirement for other disability-related programs, including the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), where applicable.

Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)

The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a long-term savings plan designed to help Canadians with disabilities build financial security.

Depending on eligibility, the Government of Canada may provide support through:

  • Canada Disability Savings Grant
  • Canada Disability Savings Bond

In most cases, an individual must be approved for the Disability Tax Credit before opening an RDSP.

Learn more:
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/disability/savings.html

Canada Disability Benefit (CBD)

The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is a federal income support program for eligible working-age Canadians with disabilities.

Eligibility requirements and benefit details are determined by the Government of Canada and may change over time.

For the most current information, eligibility requirements, and application updates, visit the official Government of Canada website.

Learn more:
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/disability/canada-disability-benefit.html

If Your Application Is Not Approved

Receiving a denial letter can be discouraging, but it does not necessarily mean the process is over. Many disability programs provide options to request reconsideration or appeal a decision.

Step 1: Review Your Decision Letter

Carefully review your decision letter and note any instructions, requirements, or deadlines provided.

Step 2: Request Reconsideration or Appeal Information

Contact the appropriate government department or organization to learn about the reconsideration or appeal process and request any required forms.

Step 3: Gather Additional Supporting Evidence

Many reconsideration requests are strengthened by updated medical documentation that explains how a disability affects everyday life.

When possible, ask healthcare providers to describe functional limitations rather than only listing medical diagnoses.

Examples may include challenges with:

  • Mobility
  • Personal care
  • Meal preparation
  • Communication
  • Memory or concentration
  • Mental health
  • 취업 지원
  • Independent living

Step 4: Explain Your Daily Challenges Clearly

Specific examples help decision-makers better understand how a disability affects daily activities and overall functioning.

Step 5: Keep Copies of Everything

Keep copies of:

  • Application forms
  • Medical reports
  • Letters and notices
  • Supporting documents
  • Submission confirmations

Organized records can help throughout the application or appeal process.

Advocacy & Support

You do not have to navigate the process alone. Community organizations may be able to assist with applications, reconsiderations, and appeals.

Disability Alliance BC (DABC)

Disability Alliance BC provides disability advocacy, information, and support related to disability benefits and appeals.

Website:
https://disabilityalliancebc.org/

Together Against Poverty Society (TAPS)

Together Against Poverty Society provides free legal advocacy and support related to income assistance and disability benefit matters.

Website:
https://www.tapsbc.ca/

Helpful Tip

Disability benefit programs, eligibility requirements, and application processes may change over time. Always refer to official government websites for the most current information, forms, deadlines, and program requirements.

If you are unsure where to begin, start with the official application resources above or connect with a community advocate for guidance.

About this Guide

This page provides general information to help individuals and families better understand disability benefits, application processes, and available resources.

This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, medical advice, or professional representation. ELARA BC does not determine eligibility, approve applications, or make decisions regarding government benefits.

Benefit programs and requirements may change over time. We encourage individuals to confirm current information with the appropriate government agency. If you notice outdated or incorrect information, please let us know so we can continue improving this resource.

If you have questions or are unsure where to start, feel free to reach out. We are happy to help you find information, understand available resources, and identify possible next steps.