BC Children and Youth Disability Supplement

Learn about the new disability supplement for middle- and low-income families raising a child with support needs.

---

Overview

The new BC Children and Youth Disability Supplement is a monthly payment that helps middle-and low-income families with the cost of raising a child with support needs. 

The Disability Supplement is part of BC’s new supports system that focuses on a child’s need, not just their diagnosis. This means more families will qualify for financial support, and all families will have more access to free community-based services.

---

Funding

Families can receive up to $6,000 per year per child.

The benefit is based on income and the number of eligible children. It pays the most to families with the lowest incomes.

Rates will gradually phase out as household income goes up. For example, families with:

---

Eligibility

Families will automatically receive the BC Disability Supplement starting July 2027 if they:

• Are approved for the Canada Disability Tax Credit
• Meet household income thresholds, and
• File their tax return each year

---

How to apply

If your child already has the Canada Disability Tax Credit 

No action is required. You do not need to apply.

• Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will automatically check your income through your tax return.
• If you qualify, CRA will deposit the BC Supplement each month with your Canada Child Benefit.
• First payments begin July 2027, based on your 2026 tax return.

If your child does NOT have the Canada Disability Tax Credit 

You must apply for the Canada Disability Tax Credit through the Canada Revenue Agency.

• You can apply at any time of year
• Processing takes 10-15 weeks
• Eligibility is based on:
  • Severe and prolonged functional impairment – not on diagnosis alone
  • Certification by a medical practitioner
  • Approval by Canada Revenue Agency
• If approved:
  • CRA will automatically assess your eligibility for the BC Disability Supplement
  • Payments will be deposited monthly with your Canada Child Benefit starting July 2027
• If denied:
  • Contact CRA directly to discuss your application, request a review, or file an objection.

---

How to use the supplement

The BC Disability Supplement is flexible, household support. Families can decide how to use the money for any costs related to raising a child with support needs, including:

• Tutoring or extracurricular activities
• Disability‑related costs not covered elsewhere
• Therapies
• Counselling for siblings
• Childcare
• Respite

Families do not need to submit paperwork – allowing more autonomy to choose what they need most.

---

Other financial supports

Families may also be eligible for other provincial and federal supports to help ease everyday costs.

• BC Children and Youth Disability Benefit
• BC Family Benefit
• Canada Disability Tax Credit 
• Canada Child Disability Benefit (under 18)
• Canada Disability Benefit (adults 18-64)
• Registered Disability Savings Plan
• BC Benefits Connector to find other ways to save