MUHSEN Canada National Resource Guide
Government Benefits for Health, Disability & Newcomers
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is designed to help disabled individuals, newcomers, refugees, and low-income families navigate the official government benefit portals available across Canada. All benefits listed are available to any resident who meets the eligibility criteria.
Important Notice: MUHSEN Canada does not provide these services directly. We provide this information to help you navigate official government portals. For specific questions about your benefits or application status, please contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or Service Canada.
Essential First Steps
You must complete these steps to unlock almost all government health and financial benefits. Without these, most applications cannot proceed.
Required for all government benefit applications, tax filing, and working in Canada. If you do not yet have a SIN, this is your very first step.
Even with $0 income, you must file taxes annually to receive the Dental Benefit, Canada Disability Benefit, GST credits, and most income-tested programs. Benefits are calculated and paid only when taxes are filed.
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
This federal plan helps with the cost of oral health care for residents with an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000 who do not have private insurance.
Preventive Care
Covers cleanings (scaling), routine exams, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and sealants to keep your teeth healthy and prevent future issues.
Restorative Care
Covers fillings, root canals, and extractions (pulling teeth) when treatment is needed to restore dental health.
Major Dental Work
Complete and partial dentures are covered, but require pre-approval before treatment can begin.
| Adjusted Family Net Income | Government Covers | You Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Under $70,000 | 100% | $0 |
| $70,000 – $80,000 | 60% | 40% |
| $80,000 – $90,000 | 40% | 60% |
| Over $90,000 | Not eligible | Full cost |
Vision Care – Provincial
Vision care is managed by each province, not the federal government. Coverage varies depending on where you live.
Children (under 18) & Seniors (65+)
Most provinces cover one full eye exam every 12–24 months at no cost. This is the most widely available vision coverage in Canada.
Working-Age Adults (19–64)
Generally not covered unless you are on a provincial disability or income support program such as ODSP in Ontario, AISH in Alberta, or PWD in BC. Check your provincial program for details.
What's Covered for Eligible Individuals
Routine eye examinations to check vision and general eye health. Many provincial programs also provide a basic pair of eyeglasses every 2–3 years for those on low-income assistance.
Newcomers & Refugees
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) covers one eye exam and one pair of basic glasses for newly arrived protected persons and refugees.
Coverage rules vary significantly by province. Visit the Provincial Vision Coverage Guide to check what is available in your province or territory.
Disability-Specific Federal Benefits
To access most disability-specific benefits, you must first obtain the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) certificate — it acts as a gateway to all programs below.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
The essential "gateway" federal tax credit for individuals with prolonged physical or mental impairments. Approval is required to access most other disability benefits. Apply via your CRA My Account.
Canada Disability Benefit
A monthly payment for low-income adults with disabilities between the ages of 18–64. Requires an active DTC certificate. Check eligibility and apply through your CRA My Account.
Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
A monthly, tax-free payment for families caring for a child under 18 who qualifies for the DTC. Amount is income-based and paid with the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
Canada Workers Benefit – Disability Supplement
An additional payment for low-income working individuals who qualify for the DTC. Designed to support people with disabilities who are in the workforce.
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
A long-term savings plan for people with disabilities, including government grants and bonds. Designed to help secure long-term financial stability.
Child & Family Benefits Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
A monthly tax-free payment to support families with children under 18. Amount is income-based and calculated automatically when you file your taxes.
Quick Link Directory
Direct links to every government portal mentioned in this guide.
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Free Tax Clinic (CVITP)
Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
Newcomer Health Coverage (IFHP)
CRA My Account (Disability Benefits)
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Child Disability Benefit (CDB)
Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
GST/HST Credit
Benefits for Newcomers