Many Canadians with disabilities are experiencing delays in receiving their monthly federal payment due to technical issues with a new program designed for low-income recipients. The Canada Disability Benefit, approved by the House of Commons in 2023 with a budget of $6.1 billion in 2024, is aimed at Canadians aged 18 to 64 who qualify for the disability tax credit, offering up to $200 per month for the first year. While the initial payments were distributed in July, some recipients are currently awaiting their second installment.
Rabia Khedr, the national director of advocacy group Disability Without Poverty, expressed concern over the delay, emphasizing the financial strain it puts on individuals living below the poverty line. Khedr highlighted the importance of timely payments, particularly for those who heavily rely on this financial support to cover essential expenses.
One such recipient, John Redins from Ottawa, shared his experience of expecting the benefit in August to cover his monthly costs, only to face a bank service charge when the payment was delayed. Redins stressed the significance of every dollar in supporting individuals in need.
Employment and Social Development Canada stated that most payments for August have been processed, attributing the remaining delays to a specific systems issue. The department assured that efforts are being made to resolve the outstanding payments promptly and prevent similar issues in the future. Service Canada, responsible for program administration, is working diligently to ensure a smooth implementation of the benefit and restore trust among recipients.
Khedr urged for swift resolution of the situation, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding the cause of the delay and the implementation of safeguards to prevent such occurrences. Building trust and reliability in the program is crucial for maintaining support for individuals with disabilities who heavily rely on these payments.