Albertans with disabilities and the organizations that support them have made it clear they want supports that meet their unique needs and abilities, rather than the one-size-fits-all approach currently offered by the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program. They have stressed the importance of providing pathways to employment for those who can work but still need supports.
In January 2025, Alberta’s government announced plans for the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), which will be offered in addition to AISH and will empower Albertans with disabilities to pursue fulfilling job opportunities while continuing to receive the supports they need.
ADAP will allow for the highest income while receiving benefits, meaning Albertans on ADAP can earn more from working while continuing to receive their financial benefits. In addition, Albertans on ADAP will also be able to receive the health benefits they need, regardless of their employment income. Through ADAP, Albertans with disabilities will not only receive the financial and health benefits they rely on, they will also have access to the employment resources they need to gain new skills and work to their full potential.
“People with disabilities shouldn’t have to choose between getting the support they need and having the opportunity to pursue a meaningful career. That’s why we’re introducing the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program – so Albertans with disabilities aren’t punished for getting a job. We’ve heard loud and clear that this is an important step, and we’re grateful for the engagement from Albertans to help us get this right.”
Alberta’s government is committed to using the insights and experiences of Albertans with disabilities to help shape the new program. Engagement will focus on five topic areas:
- program eligibility
- applications, adjudication and appeals
- benefits, income and asset exemptions
- employment supports and expectations
- client transitions
Engagement will be held throughout August and into September:
- Aug. 13 to Sept. 12: A public survey will be open at alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program-engagement.
- Aug. 13 to Sept. 12: A discussion guide will be available in pdf and video formats for Albertans to review and provide feedback online or via mail.
- Early September: Public telephone town halls will provide Albertans with more information about ADAP and answer questions. Dates and times for the townhalls will be posted on alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program-engagement and on YourAlberta social media channels.
- Early September: Roundtable engagement sessions with disability service providers and advocacy organizations.
Learn more and participate in engagement at alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program-engagement.
Quick facts
- In January 2025, Assisted Living and Social Services hosted roundtables with stakeholders from the disability sector, where the proposed changes received overwhelming support.
- This included more than 20 organizations, small and large, from across Alberta that provide services and support to Albertans with disabilities.
- These stakeholders and about 70 additional disability service providers/advocacy organizations will be invited to attend the stakeholder roundtable discussions held in six locations across the province.