Disability advocates say Alberta government is ‘clawing back’ benefits

The Alberta government is facing criticism for clawing back a federal disability benefit, with Disability advocates expressing concerns about individuals missing out on essential income support.

Starting in June, eligible Canadians can access up to $200 per month in financial support through the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB).

Inclusion Alberta has raised issues about the provincial government taking away this benefit from Albertans who receive Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH).

“The CDB is meant to supplement, not replace provincial disability income support,” stated Trish Bowman, CEO of Inclusion Alberta. “Removing a benefit intended to alleviate poverty for adults with disabilities is incomprehensible.”

Ashley Stevenson, press secretary for the Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services, mentioned in a statement to Global News that while the provincial government appreciates the federal support, they are also proud to offer the highest disability benefit rate in Canada, approximately $1,900 per month.

“AISH’s core benefit rate is $533 higher than Ontario’s equivalent program rate, $515 higher than Saskatchewan’s equivalent program rate, $417 higher than BC’s equivalent program rate, and $554 higher than Manitoba’s equivalent program rate,” added Stevenson.

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“In addition to financial benefits, AISH clients receive personal and medical benefits worth over $400 per month on average. We invite all of our provincial counterparts to step up and match Alberta’s generous rates.”

Stevenson reassured that the AISH rate will remain unchanged with an annual indexed increase of two percent. She clarified that the CDB will be considered non-exempt income, ensuring that Albertans on AISH will continue to receive the same overall monthly support.

Veronica Hooper initially welcomed the Canada Disability Benefit news but was disheartened to learn about its non-exempt status.

Her daughter, an AISH recipient, would have benefitted from the $200 to ease living expenses in Alberta.

“Having a bit extra would mean the difference between buying food or paying rent,” Hooper shared with Global News.

Hooper emphasized that every dollar is crucial for her daughter’s journey towards full independence.

She intends to write a letter to the Alberta government urging a reconsideration of the decision and calling for federal intervention.

“I don’t want this issue to be overlooked,” Hooper stated.

Disability advocate Zachary Weeks expressed fatigue with the narrative of Alberta offering the highest disability amount.

“It’s not praiseworthy when that amount still falls below the poverty line,” Weeks remarked.

Weeks voiced concerns about the future support for AISH recipients due to funding cuts by the province.

In the 2025 budget, approximately $1.6 billion was allocated for the AISH program, representing a $49 million decrease from the third quarter forecast for the 2024-25 budget.

“Respect the CDB as intended and refrain from using it to balance the provincial budget,” urged Weeks.

Stevenson clarified that the budgeted costs do not affect client income, and AISH is expected to support over 80,000 Albertans.

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