This comprehensive benefit is designed to assist Albertans living with permanent medical conditions that prevent them from getting a job.
This program is available to Albertan residents who are at least 18 years old but not old enough to receive an Old Age Security Pension. One must have been diagnosed with a medical condition of which no known cure exists. It’s essential that this medical condition also substantially prevents the applicant from earning a living. People living in correctional or mental health facilities like the Alberta Hospital Edmonton are not eligible under this fund.
To determine income, AISH considers the income reported on your income tax form, your partner’s income tax form, and the income tax form of any other relevant persons such as parents or adult children. However, the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and the Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) will not be calculated as part of your income. AISH also considers the assets of applicants. The considerable assets must not exceed $100,000. The AISH income consideration has unique features, and you can read up more on it here.
AISH beneficiaries are also expected to apply for every other benefit they are eligible for, such as the Canada Pension Plan Disability benefits and employment insurance. You can fill out this application form and submit it either online or at the nearest AISH office to apply for AISH. However, because of the complex nature of the application, it’s best to visit the office to get detailed information. Once approved, you can get a living allowance, child benefits, medical benefits, and supplementary personal benefits.
What is Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)?
Alberta’s Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) is a provincial government program designed to provide financial and health-related assistance to eligible Albertans with a permanent medical condition that substantially limits their ability to earn a living.
AISH supports individuals who cannot work due to their disabilities by helping them meet their basic needs and live as independently as possible.
AISH provides monthly living allowances, health benefits, and personal allowances. The living allowance helps cover basic living expenses like food, shelter, and clothing. Health benefits include coverage for prescription drugs, dental care, optical care, and emergency medical travel expenses. There are also additional benefits for those who have specific needs, such as a child or dependent care.
Who is eligible for Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)?
To qualify for AISH, individuals must meet several criteria. They must be at least 18 years old and not yet eligible for Old Age Security, have a permanent disability that impairs their ability to earn a living, and meet financial eligibility requirements set by the program. Residency requirements also stipulate that applicants must live in Alberta and be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
When was Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) introduced?
AISH was introduced in 1979 by the Government of Alberta. The program was groundbreaking at the time, representing a significant step forward in social welfare policy by focusing specifically on adults with severe and permanent disabilities.
Over the years, the program expanded to accommodate more recipients as awareness and diagnosis of disabilities improved. Adjustments were periodically made to the benefits and eligibility criteria to better align with economic conditions and cost of living changes.
In response to advocacy from disability groups and changes in the economy, periodic increases in benefit amounts were implemented to help recipients better manage the rising cost of living. Efforts were also made to streamline the application process and make it more accessible, along with adjustments to the asset and income limits to allow more people to qualify.