Presenters: Megan Milot (GVAD) & David McGregor (BCAD)
Megan:
Hello. My name is Megan Milot. I’m the interim president of GVAD.
David:
Hello. I’m David McGregor, vice president of BCAD.
Megan:
In a previous video, Cameron and I talked about the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB).
We said all Deaf and disabled people qualify. That was not fully accurate.
Now we’re here to clarify with the correct information, based on British Columbia.
David:
CDB means Canada Disability Benefit.
It’s a new federal income support for low-income, working-age adults with disabilities.
The purpose is to reduce poverty and support those who need it most.
Megan:
Applications open June 20, 2025.
You can apply through CRA’s “My Account” online or using a paper form.
If you’re interested — prepare now.
David:
To be eligible, you must:
-Be between 18 and 64 years old
-Live in Canada
-Be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
-Have filed your 2023 income taxes
Megan:
DTC means Disability Tax Credit.
It’s a federal program.
Your doctor fills a form to confirm you have a long-term disability that affects your daily life.
You must be approved for DTC before applying for the CDB.
David:
Yes. If you receive provincial disability assistance (PWD) in B.C., and you are approved for the DTC, you can receive the CDB too.
The B.C. government confirmed — the CDB will not reduce your PWD payments.
You will keep both.
Megan:
You could receive up to $200 per month — or $2,400 per year.
This money is tax-free.
Even if you are working or have some income, you may still qualify.
If you earn under $10,000, your income won’t affect the benefit.
David:
No income? That’s okay.
If you have no earnings and are approved for the DTC, you can still receive the full benefit — as long as you file your taxes.
Megan:
Deaf-friendly services can help:
Wavefront Centre – Community Outreach
Email: community.outreach@wavefrontcentre.ca
Well-Being Program for the Deaf
Email: wellbeing.staff@vch.ca
They can support you in ASL to apply for the DTC and the CDB.
David:
This benefit is important for Deaf British Columbians with disabilities.
Make sure you apply if you qualify.
Megan:
If you have questions, contact GVAD, BCAD, WATERFRONT CENTRE, or WELL-BEING PROGRAM
We’re here to support you with clear, accurate information.
David:
Thank you for watching.
Please share this video with your community.
More updates coming soon. Bye.
