Disability benefit regulations must prioritize most vulnerable

November 27, 2024 – The War Amps has provided comments to the federal government on its proposed regulations for the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), which as drafted will fail individuals in need the most.

As the national voice for amputees in Canada, The War Amps is extremely disappointed that the government has yet to address key concerns with the CDB from our organization and other stakeholders. Namely, that it has shockingly maintained the maximum amount of individual financial assistance available at $2,400 per year, or $200 per month, despite feedback from essentially the entire disability community that this is not nearly enough.

“This appallingly inadequate contribution fails to meet what is necessary to fulfill the program’s primary purpose to reduce poverty and support the financial security of working-age persons with disabilities in an equitable manner,” says Brian Forbes, Chairman of The War Amps Executive Committee. “It also fails to consider and address the high costs of disability, including the costs of assistive devices such as artificial limbs.”

In its current form, the CDB’s scope is too wide as it includes those who can earn an income through employment or self-employment. The most vulnerable should be prioritized by setting the eligibility income levels lower, allowing the CDB to pay more to those at a lesser income.

Determining eligibility using the unwieldy Disability Tax Credit (DTC) as proposed by the government is also inappropriate, as it serves a different purpose than the CDB. We instead propose a presumptive approval model recognizing individuals’ access to provincial or territorial income support programs.

“Empowering Canadians living with disabilities requires bold action. To truly support Canadians with disabilities made vulnerable by poverty, the government must significantly increase funding for the CDB to make a meaningful difference,” says Annelise Petlock, Director, General Counsel and Member Programs for The War Amps.

“Only then will it truly address the plight of impoverished Canadians with disabilities and ensure they receive the comprehensive assistance they rightfully deserve.”

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For More Information

Lesley LeRoux
Manager, Communications
613-731-2952 (Ottawa)
1 800 465-2677
communications@waramps.ca