For those of us living in our community, we are very fortunate to have Rise Calgary offering free support to residents right in our community. Over the last several months, volunteers and staff have been fielding inquiries from residents, family members, and friends about the proposed changes to the Alberta’s disability program. Committed to ensuring Ranchlanders understand how these changes could affect our community residents, Salimah Kassam, Rise Calgary Executive Director shared the following insights about how the proposed policy changes could affect people with disabilities living in our community.
Alberta’s Transition from AISH to ADAP
The Government of Alberta is introducing the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), which will replace AISH for many recipients starting July 1, 2026. Key changes include:
• Automatic Transfer: Current AISH recipients will be moved to ADAP unless they reapply and are approved to remain on AISH.
• Reduced Benefits: ADAP provides $200 per month less than AISH, resulting in a $2,400 annual income loss.
• Employment Expectations: ADAP introduces mandatory work-related criteria, regardless of disability severity.
• No Appeal Process: Decisions made by a government-appointed panel will be final.
• Rent Increases: AISH recipients in community housing may see rent increases of up to $220 per month.
Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)
The Canada Disability Benefit launched in 2025, offering up to $200 per month to eligible working-age adults with disabilities. However:
• Alberta is clawing back the CDB from AISH payments, meaning recipients may not see any financial gain.
• AISH recipients are required to apply for the CDB, even if they won’t benefit due to the clawback.
• Applying for the required Disability Tax Credit (DTC) can cost up to $300, creating additional barriers.
Inclusion Alberta’s Response
Inclusion Alberta has voiced strong opposition to both the ADAP transition and the CDB clawback. Their concerns include:
• The changes will increase poverty and reduce autonomy for people with disabilities.
• ADAP’s employment expectations are unrealistic and discriminatory, especially without inclusive supports.
• The loss of appeal rights is unjust and undermines dignity.
• Alberta is the only province clawing back the CDB, which Inclusion Alberta calls punitive and mean-spirited.
• The DTC application process adds financial and administrative burdens for those already facing hardship.
Inclusion Alberta continues to advocate for:
• Full exemption of the CDB from income calculations.
• Preservation of AISH as a stable, unconditional support.
• Voluntary, inclusive employment supports tailored to individual needs.
Click here to the Ranchlands Community News home page for the latest Ranchlands community updates.
