| Feature | CDB | DTC |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Cash benefit. | Tax credit. |
| Purpose | Provide direct income support. | Reduce taxes owed. |
| Who It Benefits | Working-age Canadians with disabilities who meet income and eligibility thresholds. | Eligible individuals or their supporting family members (via transfer). |
| Eligibility | Requires DTC approval as a condition of eligibility, plus income testing. | Requires certification by a medical professional and approval by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). |
| Based on Income? | Yes (targeted at low-income individuals). | No. |
| Age Range | Working-age adults (18–64). | All ages (with taxable income). |
| Amount | Up to $200 per month (based on household income). https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ disability/canada-disability-benefit/amount.html | Can provide over $8,000 per year in federal and provincial tax savings. *Amounts may vary |
| Decision Wait Time | Up to 28 days after receipt of application. | 8-12 weeks after receipt of application. |
| Precondition for Other Benefits? | N/A | Yes — approval is often a prerequisite for other programs like the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB). |
| Administered by | Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). |
| Website | https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ disability/canada-disability-benefit.html | https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/segments/tax-credits-deductions-persons-disabilities/disability-tax-credit/about-dtc.html |