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Maytree Policy in Focus

Maytree Policy in Focus identifies and shares practical research to help inform policy and decision-making.  Subscribe to the Maytree Newsletter to receive Maytree Policy in Focus.

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Issue 6: Gaps in benefits leaves millions without disability supports

December 2008

  • 3.6 million Canadians have a physical, psychological or health condition that limits their everyday activities.
  • If the illness or disability is temporary, they can apply for Employment Insurance (EI). If they are not likely to return to work before retirement, they can apply for disability benefits through the Canada Pension Plan (CPP-D).
  • If the illness or disability is recurring, Canadians are not likely to be eligible for EI or CPP-D and must deplete their savings before being eligible for social assistance.
  • More than half of disabled Canadians don’t receive benefits from federal or provincial income programs or from private insurance.
  • Canada spends less on disability benefits than the U.S. and most other OECD countries. 
  • 27% of working age adults with disabilities experience low-income, compared with 14% of the population.
  • Workers on EI cannot supplement their wages with paid employment.
  • Those who receive benefits through the CPP-D can only supplement their wages to a maximum of $4,200 annually.

Read the full issue of this quarter’s Maytree Policy in Focus.

 

Maytree Policy in Focus Webinar Banner  Register for a Webinar
 with Michael J. Prince

Michael J. Prince in Canadians Need a Medium-Term Sickness/Disability Income Benefit, published by the Caledon Institute of Social Policy, presents three options for addressing the gaps in income protection for those working-age Canadians with recurring or cyclical illnesses. 

Join Maytree and hear more about Michael J. Prince’s ideas on sickness and disability benefits. The webinar is scheduled for February 26, 2009 at 12:00 p.m. EST. Register today.

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