One Time Disability Payment Canada for Covid-19

Last week parliament approved the one time disability payment to Canadians with disabilities. It was part of Bill C-20 that also had the changes to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy program. The Canadian government says that about 1.7 million with disabilities should benefit from this program. So what are some details of this program? And how do Canadians who have disabilities apply to receive this one time payment?

One Time Disability Payment, How much?

The government of Canada’s website says that about 1.7 million Canadians can receive a one time payment of up to $600.00. Of note, this one time payment is non taxable and does not have to be reported anywhere. In a nutshell it is free money to spend as the recipients see fit. The government will move forward to start paying out on this once the bill receives Royal Assent.

How to Become Eligible to Receive the Payment?

The government of Canada’s website outlines three ways a person with disabilities can become eligible for the payment. Canadians with disabilities will have to fit in one of the three criteria the government has laid out. Here they are below:

• They are holders of a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate (eligible persons not yet in possession of such a certificate would be able to apply for one up to 60 days after Royal Assent to be considered for the one-time payment).
• Are currently receiving Canada Pension Plan disability benefits or Quebec Pension Plan disability benefits.
• Or are in receipt of disability supports provided by Veterans Affairs Canada.

Conclusion

The government is hoping to help one of the most vulnerable groups to cope with the additional stresses due to COVID-19 with a non-taxable one time payment. This can be spent on whatever they need, and does not need to be tracked. During these uncertain financial times, any help that can be rendered is appreciated. Will it be enough to help Canadians during COVID-19? Only time will tell.