CPP-DISABILITY

Applying for Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D) is a federal process managed by Service Canada. It is separate from the provincial PWD program, though you can often receive both (with some adjustments to your provincial payments).

To qualify, your disability must be "severe and prolonged," meaning it regularly prevents you from doing any type of substantially gainful work.

1. Check Your Contributions

Unlike provincial disability, CPP-D is based on your work history. You must have contributed to the Canada Pension Plan in:

• 4 of the last 6 years, OR

• 3 of the last 5 years (if you have contributed for at least 25 years).

2. The Application Package

The application consists of two main parts that must be submitted together:

Part A: The Applicant’s Report (Form ISP1151)

• Who completes it: You.

• What it covers: Your work history, education, and a detailed description of how your condition affects your ability to work.

• Tip: Don't just list symptoms; explain why you can't perform job tasks (e.g., "cannot sit for more than 10 minutes" rather than "have back pain").

Part B: The Medical Report (Form ISP2519)

• Who completes it: Your doctor or nurse practitioner.

• The Cost: Service Canada will pay your doctor up to $85 to complete this. If the doctor charges more, you are responsible for the difference.

• Submission: Your doctor can mail this directly to Service Canada, or give it to you to include in your package.

3. How to Submit

You can apply in two ways:

• Online (Fastest): Sign in to your My Service Canada Account (MSCA). You can complete Part A online, but your doctor must still fill out the paper Medical Report.

• Paper Application: Download the forms, print them, and mail them to the Service Canada office listed on the form.

4. The Timeline & Decision

• Wait Time: It typically takes 4 months (120 days) for a decision.

• Retroactive Payments: If approved, you may receive a "back-pay" lump sum for the months you were eligible but hadn't yet been approved.

• If Denied: Approximately 60% of first-time applications are denied. You have 90 days to request a "Reconsideration" in writing.

5. CPP-D and Provincial PWD

If you are already on BC Provincial PWD:

• You are often required by the Ministry to apply for CPP-D.

• If you win CPP-D, the Ministry will subtract your CPP-D amount from your BC PWD cheque dollar-for-dollar.

• Why do it? CPP-D offers higher total benefits for some, and it contributes to your future retirement pension.

Next Steps

• Create a My Service Canada Account: If you don't have one, you'll need a GCKey or your banking sign-in partners.

• Talk to your doctor: Ensure they agree that your condition is "severe and prolonged" before you pay for the medical form.