Updated July 2026. Alberta’s new Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) became operational July 1, 2026, created under Bill 12, passed by the Alberta Legislature on December 9, 2025. It runs alongside a restructured AISH program as a dual-track system — here’s how it works, and some of the concerns disability advocates have raised about it.
How the Two Programs Split
ADAP is intended for Albertans with a severe disability that significantly restricts, but doesn’t fully prevent, their ability to work. Those assessed as entirely unable to work continue through AISH instead. There’s a single combined application through Alberta Supports — you don’t need to choose between the two programs yourself; a disability assistance adjudicator determines which program fits based on your medical evidence and assessed work capacity.
Payment Amounts
ADAP’s maximum core benefit is $1,740 per month — $200 less than AISH’s $1,940 maximum for individuals. Existing AISH clients who transition to ADAP receive a $200 monthly transition benefit that keeps their total payment equal to their prior AISH amount, but only until December 31, 2027.
The Employment Income Trade-Off
ADAP’s earning exemption is $700 per month with no reduction to benefits, and clients can earn up to $45,240 annually in employment income while continuing to receive financial support — reportedly the highest earning threshold among comparable disability programs in Canada. Health benefits, including prescription drug coverage and dental care, continue regardless of employment income.
Eligibility Criteria
- Alberta resident, 18 years or older
- Severe and permanent disability that significantly restricts, but doesn’t fully prevent, employment
- Completed medical report from a licensed practitioner
- Demonstrated financial need based on income and assets
- Must apply for any other benefits you may be eligible for
A Concern Worth Knowing About
Disability advocacy organizations, including Inclusion Alberta and Friends of Medicare, have raised concerns about Bill 12 removing the legislative requirement for mandatory annual cost-of-living increases — meaning ADAP (and the transition benefit protecting current AISH clients) could be frozen at current amounts without automatic inflation adjustments going forward, unlike the indexing AISH previously guaranteed.
How to Apply
- Contact the Alberta Supports Contact Centre or visit a local office
- Request and complete the combined AISH and ADAP application
- Submit required medical documentation from a licensed practitioner
- An adjudicator reviews your case and determines which program applies to you
Sources: Government of Alberta, Alberta Disability Assistance Program; Inclusion Alberta.
