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Disability Pension

VACDisability and compensationNon-taxable

You don't need to understand every program before taking the next step.

In one sentence

The Disability Pension is a tax-free monthly disability benefit under the Pension Act.

Who this is usually for

You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: Eligibility depends on the type and period of service and the relationship between the disability and service.

What it may help with

Tax-free monthly compensation.
Potential additional amounts for eligible dependants under applicable rules.
Access to treatment benefits for entitled conditions.

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What is this?

The Disability Pension is a tax-free monthly disability benefit under the Pension Act. It generally applies to eligible service before April 1, 2006 and to certain groups and service types still governed by the Pension Act, including eligible RCMP service. Like , the decision involves both entitlement - the relationship between disability and service - and assessment - the extent of disability. Additional Pension Act allowances may become relevant in some cases.

Do not choose the statute for the veteran.

Why someone might look at this benefit

The condition relates to service governed by the Pension Act.

You served before April 1, 2006 and need to know which disability regime applies.

You are an eligible current or former RCMP member.

An entitled condition has worsened.

You need to understand allowances connected to a disability pension.

Who might qualify?

You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: Eligibility depends on the type and period of service and the relationship between the disability and service. Medical evidence must establish a disability. Service evidence must support causation or aggravation under the applicable legal test. determines whether the Pension Act or Veterans Well-being Act route applies. Only Veterans Affairs Canada or the legally responsible decision-maker can determine eligibility.

Only the responsible organization can determine eligibility.

What this benefit may help with

Tax-free monthly compensation.

Potential additional amounts for eligible dependants under applicable rules.

Access to treatment benefits for entitled conditions.

Possible access to related allowances, such as Attendance Allowance or Exceptional Incapacity Allowance, when criteria are met.

Where this may fit in your transition

Stage 4 Stage 7

See the full Veterans Transition Roadmap

Typical process

Start a VAC disability-benefit application.

Submit a disability-benefit application.

VAC obtains or reviews service and medical evidence.

VAC determines entitlement under the Pension Act.

VAC assesses the extent of disability and issues a written decision.

Treatment benefits may follow for entitled conditions.

Use reassessment, departmental review or VRAB routes where appropriate.

If you receive a decision

Entitlement and assessment can be reviewed or appealed.

• 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

Application received

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

Information requests

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

Review

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

Decision

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

If approved

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

If not approved

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

Reassessment

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

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

Diagnosis

service records

chronology

current severity

dependant information where applicable.

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