Navigating government benefits can feel like decoding a foreign language. But if you’re dealing with a serious medical condition that keeps you from working, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefit might just be your financial safety net.
For April 2025, that benefit is up to $1,673.24 per month — and this guide breaks it all down in plain English: who qualifies, how to apply, what you’ll get, and what to watch out for.
Table of Content
Overview
Let’s start with the basics. The CPP Disability Benefit is for people who have contributed to the CPP and now live with a severe, prolonged disability that prevents them from working.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| April 2025 Payment Date | April 28, 2025 |
| Monthly Benefit | $1,673.24 (will rise to $1,685.61 by Dec 2025) |
| Eligibility | Under 65, valid CPP contributions, severe/prolonged disability |
| Child Benefit | $301.77 per eligible child per month |
| Taxable? | Yes, it’s taxable income |
| Contact | Service Canada: 1-800-277-9914 |
What Is It
The CPP Disability Benefit is a monthly payment for contributors to the CPP who are unable to work due to a serious and long-term medical condition. It’s not a temporary solution — this benefit is designed for those facing lasting disabilities.
If you qualify, this benefit helps replace lost income and covers essential living costs.
Eligibility
To get the benefit, you must meet three key requirements:
Age
You must be under 65. Once you turn 65, your disability benefits convert into your standard CPP retirement pension.
Contributions
You must have paid into the Canada Pension Plan for:
- At least 4 of the last 6 years, or
- If you’ve contributed for 25+ years, only 3 of the last 6 years are required.
Disability Definition
Your condition must be:
- Severe – You’re incapable of working regularly.
- Prolonged – Your condition is expected to last indefinitely or result in death.
A medical report from your doctor or nurse practitioner is required to confirm this.
Amount
In April 2025, the maximum monthly payment is $1,673.24. This amount is adjusted every January for inflation — so expect it to increase slightly by the end of the year.
Children
Got kids? If they’re:
- Under 18, or
- 18–25 and in school full-time
They may be eligible to receive an additional $301.77 per child, per month.
Post Retirement
If you already started your CPP retirement pension and then became disabled, you won’t qualify for the main disability benefit — but you might still get the Post-Retirement Disability Benefit, which pays $598.49/month in 2025.
How To Apply
- SIN (Social Insurance Number)
- Bank info (for direct deposit)
- Medical details
- Signed Medical Report from your doctor
Apply
- Online through your My Service Canada Account
- Or, download and mail the paper application
Wait It Out
- Average wait time: 120 days
- Terminal illness? Applications are reviewed within 5 business days
Taxes
Yes, the benefit is considered taxable income. You can even ask them to deduct taxes automatically using Form ISP-3520.
Work
Yes, but there’s a cap:
- If you earn over $7,100/year, you must tell Service Canada
- If your income exceeds $20,153.09/year, your ability to work may be reassessed, and benefits could stop
You Must Report
- Any return to work (even part-time)
- Any health improvement
- Changes to dependents or contact info
Staying transparent helps you avoid overpayments or disqualifications.
FAQs
When is April 2025 CPP disability paid?
On April 28, 2025.
Can I work while on CPP disability?
Yes, but income caps apply.
Is the benefit taxable in Canada?
Yes, it’s taxable income.
How much do children get under CPP disability?
$301.77 per child each month.
How long does CPP disability take to process?
Usually around 120 days.
