Discover steps to apply for disability programs in Alberta. From meeting eligibility to gathering relevant documents, know how to get approved for the support you need.
Sep 20, 2023
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting the Alberta funding supports you need for your child or adult with disabilities.
If you've been approved under any of these funding programs, please book a consultation with an intake co-ordinator to avail the right care for your child or adult.
It can be overwhelming to apply for provincial programs that will pay for services that allow your child or adult to receive the medical and behavioural support they need.
Each program has specific criteria that applicants must meet before funding becomes available.
Without knowing the steps involved, individuals may have their application delayed or denied. Further worsening the opportunity to restore social contact and stability.
Alberta offers an impressive range of disability insurance and benefits for residents, enhancing quality of life for those with disabilities. We discuss the application process for programs that help people with behavioural disabilities, providing excellent guidance on how disabilities qualify for support in Alberta.
When you receive funding for either respite or longer term residential care, you will often be turned to disability service organizations as they help individuals gain permanent care and support.
Let’s dive into the main disability supports for individuals with behavioural complexities:
Entrust offers comprehensive support and accessibility solutions for individuals diagnosed with behavioural designations, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, acquired brain injury, Tourette syndrome, FASD, Prader-Willi syndrome and Down's syndrome.
Intellectual disabilities are life-long medical conditions that do not typically improve with medication. Individuals with a permanent disability in Alberta may qualify for multiple benefit programs.
Alternatively, mental health disabilities can use various supports, including prescription medicine, therapy, and other programs. Many available mental health disability benefits in Alberta provide a supportive and caring environment for those who need it.
Residents of BC relocating to Alberta while on disability benefits will need to notify their existing benefits program. You cannot collect disability benefits in a province where you do not reside.
Many local disability services are not transferable between these two provinces, making it necessary for new residents of Alberta from BC to apply for disability benefits. The application process can take time since individuals must submit the required paperwork and documentation supporting their claims.
Individuals moving from Ontario to Alberta will not be eligible to continue their existing provincial disability benefits. Getting disability supports in Alberta requires new residents to complete the necessary applications to receive local benefits.
Before applying for disability benefits in Alberta, you must establish residency and obtain an Alberta health care number. Then, you can have a professional complete the medical documents necessary for your application.
Although federal disability programs in Canada are transferable between provinces, such as relocating to Alberta from Quebec, provincial programs and services are not. Individuals will no longer receive a disability benefit from Quebec once they leave the province.
New Alberta residents must complete the required applications from Alberta Supports after establishing residency. If you currently receive CPP disability benefits in Quebec, it can make the application process in Alberta easier.
The disability benefits in Alberta cover various needs of its residents, including accommodations, assistive technology, and caregiver support to promote independent living. How much does disability pay in Alberta?
Individuals may be eligible for more than one type of program or service listed below, sourced from the Government of Canada:
Entrust utilizes the expertise of behavioural specialists to customize a disability support program to suit each individual, incorporating vocational training and rehabilitation services as needed. By matching eligible services to clients, Entrust provides a comprehensive and effective solution.
The AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped) application is available online, making it easy to start the process for disability insurance in Alberta. Alternatively, you can print or request a paper copy for submission.
To be eligible for AISH benefits, an individual must meet specific criteria. These include:
The AISH application requires specific documentation to prove eligibility. This necessary paperwork includes the following:
Once you submit your AISH application, you will get a notification your application was received. If you missed any supporting documentation, the office will contact you for more information. Your application will be reviewed in order of personal, medical, and financial information to determine eligibility.
Individuals who cannot use the online portal to apply for AISH benefits can print off the application and submit it in person at their local AISH office, by mail, or by fax.
Processing times for AISH approval can vary, and priority is given to applications from individuals with terminal illnesses or receiving end-of-life palliative care, ensuring fast assistance for those in urgent need. They review applications on a first-come, first-served basis, except for priority cases. It can take up to six months or more to receive approval on your AISH application.
Once AISH approves your application, you will receive a letter of eligibility and starting date of benefits, a first step towards securing long-term disability support. Next, the office will contact you to schedule a meeting with an AISH worker to finalize your application and start your disability benefits.
Individuals can receive AISH benefits in Alberta until they reach the age of 65. Alternatively, AISH benefits may stop before then if an individual makes a higher income than the eligibility requirements.
Applying for FSCD (Family Support for Children with Disabilities) is simple through the online portal, providing a comfortable and user-friendly experience for families seeking disability benefits in Alberta. Applicants who need help filling out an application can contact the Alberta Supports office for guidance.
For an individual to be eligible for FSCD benefits in Alberta, they must meet these requirements:
The FSCD benefit program requires specific documentation for the application process. These documents include:
FSCD applications can be submitted online, and an FSCD worker reviews your file for eligibility. They will contact you if there are missing documents or if they need further clarification.
FSCD is available to multiple children in a household if they meet the eligibility requirements. Guardians need to be aware that each child will need a separate application for approval. Applicants can submit these documents online, through fax, or in person at a local FSCD office.
It takes approximately two weeks for an FSCD application to be approved, offering a relatively fast turnaround for families in need of support. Individuals can ensure a smooth process by including all necessary documentation.
Once your application is approved, a file goes to the local FSCD office. Then, an FSCD worker will be in touch to schedule an appointment to create an Individualized Family Support Plan (IFSP). You will receive an FSCD agreement outlining the support services agreed upon.
You can receive FSCD benefits in Alberta until a child reaches the age of 18 or no longer meets the eligibility requirements.
The PDD (Persons with Developmental Disabilities) application is available online through Alberta Supports.
The eligibility for PDD benefits in Alberta includes specific parameters. These criteria include:
Every PDD benefits application must have the necessary corresponding paperwork. Documentation applicants need to include are:
Once you apply for PDD benefits in Alberta, a Disability Services worker will contact you. They will review your information and talk to friends, family, and others who support you through work, school, and the community.
There could be one or more meetings with a Disability Services worker before your application is approved.
Like AISH and FSCD programs, individuals can submit hardcopy PDD application documents as an alternative to online applications.
The approval process for the PDD benefits program can vary between a few weeks to a month or more. However, individuals can simplify their application by including all supporting documentation.
Once you receive approval for your PDD application, a Disability Services worker will set up a meeting. Next, they will discuss the various support programs and services available in your area. Then, your worker will help develop your ISP (Individual Support Plan) suited to your needs.
Alberta disability benefits regulation allows individuals to receive PDD from age 18 if they meet the eligibility requirements. Your disability worker may review your file anytime there is a change in your circumstances to suit your unique needs.
Finding appropriate housing for adults with disabilities in Alberta can be challenging, but various programs offer quality solutions to enhance comfort and independence. Entrust offers a range of supports to help individuals who need short or long-term accommodations, respite care, or a group home setting.
Individuals with a permanent disability in Alberta can benefit from various adult housing solutions that support their needs and lifestyle.
Short-term respite care can include various community integration activities or at-center respite groups. These short-term programs can be a few hours at a time and continue as needed. Depending on an individual's needs, it can vary as one-on-one sessions or in a group setting.
Long-term respite care provides an extended break from a few days to weeks. These long-term respite programs allow for more independence and inclusion with a qualified caregiver for optimal support. This setting will enable individuals to function apart from their primary caregiver for a length of time.
In-home respite care temporarily accepts caregiver duties while remaining at the individual’s home. An in-home respite program can include overnight care or provide support for days or weeks. This arrangement can be ideal for individuals requiring advanced care in their homes.
Out-of-home respite care provides a safe and supportive alternative environment for loved ones with a disability. These out-of-home respite programs may include longer stays of five to 10 days. Individuals who need temporary accommodations due to a caregiver on vacation can benefit from an out-of-home respite program.
Group homes in Alberta can be the best fit for adults with developmental disabilities, offering adaptive equipment and a supportive environment for residents. The group home setting offers independence, community integration, and continuous support in a residential care setting.
Book a free consultation with one of our intake coordinators today.
Entrust Disability Services can help you navigate the funding application process, engage in disability advocacy, and match you with the personalized care your loved ones need, including support for inclusive education initiatives. Make sure your loved one receives the right Alberta disability supports that they are entitled to.
The time it takes to get disability support in Alberta through the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program can vary widely based on individual circumstances. Typically, the application process may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Key factors influencing this timeline include the completeness of the application, the necessity of medical assessments, and the current processing times at AISH offices.
In Alberta, individuals with a mental disability may be eligible for various benefits, including Income Support through the AISH program, Health Benefits for essential care, Employment Support for vocational training and job placement, and Community Supports for social inclusion. More detailed information can be found on the Alberta Government's websites for AISH, Health, and Community and Social Services.
In Alberta, disability support through the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program doesn't have a specific time limit. Recipients can continue to receive benefits as long as they meet the program's eligibility criteria, including medical, financial, and residency requirements.
Regular reviews may be conducted to ensure continued eligibility, such as confirming the recipient's ongoing medical condition or any changes in financial circumstances. If the condition improves or other eligibility criteria change, benefits may be altered or terminated.
It's essential to maintain communication with the AISH program administrators and provide any requested information or documentation promptly to ensure uninterrupted support.
Disability services for adults in Alberta include various benefits, including financial support, respite care, day programs, tax credits, and residential group homes.
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