CPP-Disability: Canada's Long-Term Disability Program

The Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D) benefit is a monthly payment for people who've contributed to the CPP and can't work because of a severe and prolonged disability. What 'severe and prolonged' means: - Severe: you have a mental or physical disability that regularly stops you from doing any substantially gainful work - Prolonged: the disability is long-term and indefinite, or likely to result in death - Both must be true at the same time Who qualifies: - You've made enough CPP contributions (typically 4 of the last 6 years, but the exact requirement depends on your contribution history and age) - You're under 65 (after 65, CPP-D converts to a regular CPP retirement pension) - You have a disability that meets both the 'severe' and 'prolonged' tests What you receive: - A flat monthly amount plus an amount based on your CPP contributions (the maximum combined is around $1,600/month in 2026, but most people receive less based on their contribution history) - Payments continue as long as you meet the disability requirements - Your dependent children may also qualify for a children's benefit How to apply: 1. Get the CPP-D application kit from Service Canada (online or by phone at 1-800-277-9914) 2. Complete the application form — it has sections for you, your employer, and your doctor 3. Your doctor fills out the medical report — this is the most important document, so make sure they're thorough about functional limitations (what you CAN'T do, not just your diagnosis) 4. Submit everything to Service Canada 5. Expect a decision in about 120 days (it can take longer — this is normal, not a bad sign) 6. If denied, you have 90 days to request a reconsideration — and many denials are overturned on appeal How it interacts with other benefits: - If you also receive LTD insurance, your insurer may offset your CPP-D payments from your benefit amount - You can receive CPP-D and EI sickness benefits simultaneously (for the overlap period) - If you're approved for CPP-D, Service Canada can help coordinate with other provincial disability programs Important: CPP-D is not automatic. You have to apply, and the medical documentation matters enormously. Don't wait until your EI or LTD runs out — apply as soon as you and your doctor know this is long-term.