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Canadian Forces Income Support (CFIS)

VACIncome and financial supportNon-taxable

Many veterans tell us they felt overwhelmed at first.

In one sentence
Canadian Forces Income Support (CFIS) is a tax-free, income-tested monthly benefit for eligible low-income Veterans, survivors and orphans.
Who this is usually for
You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: Eligibility is limited to the groups and transition circumstances defined by the Veterans Well-being Act.
What it may help with
  • Tax-free monthly income-tested support.
  • Temporary stabilization while seeking employment or another income source.
  • Support for eligible survivors and orphans.
2 min read·Preparation time varies by situationScroll to explore, or reach out if you are unsure
1

What is this?

Canadian Forces Income Support (CFIS) is a tax-free, income-tested monthly benefit for eligible low-income Veterans, survivors and orphans. It may become relevant after participation in the Rehabilitation Program or after certain income-replacement support ends. Eligibility depends on service/release criteria, household income, employment-search or exemption rules and application timing. It is not the same as , provincial assistance or a military pension.

Income benefits may interact, offset one another, or require reporting of other income. Personal calculations require the actual policy, income information, and decision letters.

Link to current rates rather than hard-coding them.

2

Why someone might look at this benefit

VAC rehabilitation or IRB is ending and household income is low.

You are able to work but have not found suitable employment.

You are unable to work and may meet an exemption from employment-search requirements.

You are a survivor or orphan with low income under the program rules.

You need temporary support while moving to another income source.

3

Who might qualify?

You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: Eligibility is limited to the groups and transition circumstances defined by the Veterans Well-being Act. Income must be below the applicable household threshold. A Veteran may need to apply within the prescribed period after or rehabilitation ends. Employment-search and participation requirements may apply unless exempt. Survivors and orphans have separate provisions. Only Veterans Affairs Canada or the legally responsible decision-maker can determine eligibility.

Only the responsible organization can determine eligibility.

4

What this benefit may help with

Tax-free monthly income-tested support.
Temporary stabilization while seeking employment or another income source.
Support for eligible survivors and orphans.

Where this may fit in your transition

Stage 6 Stage 7 Stage 8
See the full Veterans Transition Roadmap
7

Typical process

Apply through VAC with current household financial details.

Contact VAC before or promptly after IRB/rehabilitation ends.
Submit the CFIS application and household-income information.
Provide employment-search information or evidence supporting an exemption.
VAC calculates entitlement using current rates and income rules.
Report income, household and employment changes.
Review renewal and redress requirements.

If you receive a decision

Rates and thresholds change.

  • • Entitlement — whether the condition is related to service
  • • Assessment — the severity or percentage rating
  • • Effective date — when the benefit starts
  • • Calculation — how the amount was determined
  • • Approved services — what is covered and for how long
  • • Frequency or dollar limit — caps on treatment or services
  • • Reasons for denial — the specific basis for the decision

Every situation is different. Timelines vary based on the organization, the complexity of the application, and the volume of requests being processed.

What usually happens next

1

Application received

The organization typically sends a confirmation that your application was received.

2

Information requests

They may ask for additional medical, service, or financial records to support your application.

3

Review

A decision maker reviews your application, the evidence provided, and the applicable program rules.

4

Decision

You receive a written decision explaining the outcome, the reasons, and any review rights.

5

If approved

Benefits begin according to the program rules and the effective date stated in the decision.

6

If not approved

The decision letter explains why and describes your review or appeal options, including any deadlines.

7

Reassessment

If your condition or circumstances change, you may request a reassessment of the decision.

8

Reviews and appeals

Depending on the issue, you may request a departmental review or a hearing before the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.

Every situation is different. Timelines vary and are not guaranteed.

Evidence that may help

Service/release

household income

employment efforts/exemption

dependants.

Not every document is required for every application. This list is for general awareness only.

9

You may also want to explore

Income Replacement Benefit

A related program that may be worth exploring.

Rehabilitation Services

A related program that may be worth exploring.

Veterans Emergency Fund

A related program that may be worth exploring.

Provincial income assistance

A related program that may be worth exploring.

CPP Disability

A related program that may be worth exploring.

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Helpful VANCA tools

Claim Readiness ReportPossible Benefits ExplorerEvidence TrackerDescribe the ImpactSupport MapRequest Support
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Official sources

VAC

Veterans Affairs Canada is the primary decision-maker for this program. Check their official page for the most current eligibility rules, application forms, and processing times.

View the official source

Program rules may change. The official department, tribunal, insurer, or benefit provider makes eligibility and payment decisions. VANCA provides information only — not decisions.

Before you apply

  • I understand what this benefit is.
  • I know what evidence I already have.
  • I understand who makes the decision.
  • I know my next step.
  • I know where to ask questions if I become stuck.

Not sure if this applies to you?

We don't determine eligibility, but we can help you understand your options, explain how programs may work together, and identify possible next steps.

Last reviewed

2026-07-18

Next scheduled review

2026-10-15

Official source verified

2026-07-18

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