Alberta Disability Assistance Program

When ADAP launches on July 1, 2026, it is proposed that:

• AISH clients will receive a monthly core benefit of up to $1,940
• ADAP clients will receive a monthly core benefit of up to $1,740

ADAP’s proposed core benefit rate is among the highest in the country, reinforcing the province’s commitment to supporting Albertans with disabilities. ADAP’s proposed core benefit would provide, on average, $300 more per month than disability programs in most other provinces. The proposed core benefit rates reflect ADAP’s intent to support individuals with disabilities who can supplement their benefits through employment income.

ADAP will allow for the highest employment income in Canada while receiving benefits, meaning Albertans on ADAP can earn more from working while continuing to receive benefits. ADAP clients will receive significant employment income exemptions to encourage continued growth in employment earnings. In addition, ADAP clients will continue to receive the health benefits they need, regardless of their employment income.

On July 1, 2026, all AISH clients will be transitioned to ADAP. Those who transitioned from AISH will receive a transition benefit to ensure they continue to receive their existing AISH benefit rate until they are placed in the program best suited to their unique situation. From July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, clients can choose to remain on ADAP or request to be reassessed for AISH. 

Reassessments for AISH will be prioritized and streamlined for clients with the most severe and profound disabilities, including those with palliative conditions. Clients who are eligible for expedited return to AISH will have the option to choose to remain on ADAP. 

All existing AISH clients will be assured a place in either ADAP or AISH.

There will be a single combined application for AISH and ADAP, which will be assessed for general, financial and medical eligibility. Once general and financial eligibility is confirmed, disability assistance adjudicators will review the medical evidence presented in the Disability Assistance Medical Report to determine if the applicant meets the medical eligibility criteria for either the AISH program or ADAP. Eligible applicants will be placed in the program that best meets their unique circumstances and needs. 

It is proposed that, in general, an individual with a severe disability that results in them being permanently unable to work will be medically eligible for the AISH program. Individuals with severe and permanent disabilities who participate in supported employment at minimal levels (a few hours a week), for community attachment purposes, may qualify for AISH.

It is proposed that, in general, an individual with a severe disability who is assessed as able to work will be medically eligible for ADAP. To be medically eligible for ADAP, the severe disability must be determined to significantly restrict but not prevent a person from being employed.

ADAP clients will be able to apply for an AISH assessment if their medical condition or ability to work changes. 

All existing AISH clients will be assured a place in either ADAP or AISH. Those currently on AISH will continue to receive their existing benefits until they are placed in the program best suited to their unique situation.

Through ADAP, Albertans with disabilities will have access to the resources and tools they need to gain new skills and work to their full potential. Employment services will include holistic wraparound supports designed to address a wide range of personal, social and practical barriers that may impact an individual’s ability to find a job and work to their full potential. ADAP clients will be expected to participate in activities that help them move toward employment with supports that include career planning, assistive technology, simulated worksites and supported job placements. ADAP clients will work with case managers to create a personalized action plan. 

If an ADAP client is unable to find a job after receiving employment services, they will continue to receive their financial and health benefits. If their medical condition progresses to the point that they are unable to work, they can apply for the AISH program.