Starting July 1, some Albertans will be transitioned to the province's new disability program, the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), despite vocal opposition from many advocates. The Alberta legislature building was photographed on May 8, 2025, by Shaughn Butts of Postmedia.
Transition Details and Concerns
The ADAP will operate alongside the existing Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program. The province states that ADAP is designed for individuals with disabilities who are still capable of working, offering higher income-earning thresholds before clawbacks compared to AISH. However, disability advocates have raised alarms about the transition, citing potential negative impacts on vulnerable individuals.
Advocates Report Alarming Trends
On Premier Danielle Smith's radio show on Saturday, a disability advocate reported that a man had died by suicide due to fear of the upcoming changes. Smith responded that it is "always very sad when somebody is in that state of despair." Heather Fairbairn, a person with a disability and advocate, expressed concern over the growing number of individuals contemplating or mentioning suicide because of the changes. Screenshots provided to Postmedia show people on Facebook groups stating they have exhausted all options, including therapy and medication.
"It's people who have just been through years of hardship and struggling to make ends meet and things are getting more expensive, yet our AISH is being cut," Fairbairn said. "They're signalling 'I can't take any more, and I have no hope left of a decent life.' I take these threats very seriously."
In a statement to Postmedia, Jonah Pickle, press secretary to the minister of assisted living and social services, said "every life lost to suicide is a tragedy" and that help is available for those who need it.
Income Threshold Changes
The maximum monthly allowance for ADAP is $1,740, a decrease of $200 from the AISH maximum of $1,940. Single individuals on ADAP can earn up to $700 per month without affecting their financial benefits. Those earning above $700 will face deductions, but can earn up to $45,240 while still receiving benefits. In contrast, single individuals on AISH can earn up to $350 without benefit impacts.
Individuals on ADAP with one or more dependents can earn up to $1,100 before clawbacks. For AISH or ADAP recipients with cohabitating partners, the partner can earn up to $1,500 without impacting benefits. Beginning in August, households where two adults receive income assistance from AISH or ADAP will each receive 88 percent of the maximum individual benefit, reflecting "shared household expenses and mutual financial responsibility," according to the province.
Notification and Transition Process
The province says all existing AISH recipients will either remain in the program or transition to ADAP. Individuals were notified in mid-May if they were being moved to ADAP. In July, AISH recipients will be transitioned to ADAP, except those with severe and profound developmental disabilities, palliative or terminal medical conditions, those living in continuing care homes, and individuals aged 60 or older.
