Navigating life with a permanent disability can be challenging, but Alberta’s Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program offers essential financial and health assistance to those in need. Designed to support Albertans with permanent medical conditions that prevent them from working, AISH ensures eligible individuals and their families receive the necessary help to meet their unique needs.
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What is AISH, and How Does It Work?
AISH is a government program providing income and health benefits tailored to the needs of eligible Albertans with disabilities. Payments are distributed monthly, alongside other income support benefits, ensuring recipients can cover living expenses, health costs, and personal needs. Each applicant’s benefit amount varies based on their financial situation and family size, within the program’s maximum limits.
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What Does AISH Cover?
The AISH program offers various benefits to cater to different needs:
1. Living Allowance
This monthly allowance helps cover housing costs, whether you rent, own a home, or live with family or friends. The allowance amount considers any income earned by a spouse or partner. If you live in an approved Continuing Care Home, you may qualify for a modified living allowance based on your specific living arrangement:
- Personal Allowance: $365
- Private Room: $2,366
- Shared Room: $2,047
- Standard Room: $1,880
2. Child Benefit
For recipients with dependent children, AISH provides additional financial support:
- First Dependent Child: $227
- Each Additional Dependent Child: $114
3. Health Benefits
Health coverage extends to recipients, their spouses, and dependent children. Benefits include:
- Prescription and over-the-counter drugs
- Dental services (check-ups, cleaning, fillings, dentures, X-rays)
- Vision care (one eye exam every two years for adults, annual glasses for children)
- Medical supplies (diabetes management, oxygen supplies, adaptive clothing)
- Emergency ambulance services
4. Personal Benefits
Personal benefits address additional expenses not covered by standard allowances. To qualify, recipients must demonstrate a specific need and meet eligibility criteria. These benefits include:
- Health-related needs: CPAP machines, physiotherapy, adaptive aids
- Child-related costs: Education and childcare expenses
- Life transitions: Moving costs, setting up a new home, escaping abusive situations
- Funeral arrangements and other unique circumstances
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Eligibility Criteria for AISH
To qualify for AISH, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old and not eligible for Old Age Security (OAS) pension
- Reside in Alberta and be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Have a permanent medical condition preventing them from earning income
- Meet financial eligibility criteria (considering household income and assets)
Applicants cannot be in correctional facilities or specific mental health institutions.
Applying for AISH
Documents Needed:
- AISH Application: Complete online or via a paper form.
- Medical Report: Submitted by the applicant or their doctor.
After submission, an AISH worker will contact the applicant to finalize the process and provide further guidance.
AISH Payment Amounts (2024)
Here are the maximum monthly amounts AISH recipients may receive:
Benefit | Maximum Monthly Amount |
---|---|
Living Allowance | $1,901 |
Child Allowance (First Child) | $227 |
Child Allowance (Additional) | $114 |
Modified Living Allowances | $365 – $2,366 (based on room type) |
Additional benefits, such as health and personal benefits, are assessed on an individual basis.
Receiving AISH Payments
Payment Methods:
Payments are now issued via direct deposit. To set this up, recipients need:
- A completed Direct Deposit Registration Form
- A VOID cheque or online banking details
Payment Schedule (2025):
AISH payments are deposited four business days before the month begins. Here’s the 2025 schedule:
Payment Month | Payment Date |
February | January 28, 2025 |
March | February 25, 2025 |
April | March 26, 2025 |
May | April 25, 2025 |
June | May 27, 2025 |
July | June 25, 2025 |
August | July 28, 2025 |
September | August 26, 2025 |
October | September 24, 2025 |
November | October 28, 2025 |
December | November 25, 2025 |
Payments are deposited at midnight on the specified dates.
Reporting Changes and Overpayments
Changes to Report:
Recipients must notify AISH of any changes to:
- Employment or income
- Medical conditions
- Family size (e.g., a child turning 18)
- Relationship status
- Contact information
Overpayments:
Overpayments occur when unreported changes or errors affect payment amounts. Recipients must repay these amounts promptly or risk incurring debt. Appeals can be filed within 30 days if the notice is incorrect.
Final Thoughts
AISH provides vital financial and health support to Albertans with severe disabilities, ensuring they can maintain their well-being and independence. By understanding eligibility criteria, benefit structures, and reporting responsibilities, recipients can make the most of this invaluable program. For more information, visit the Alberta Government AISH page or contact an AISH worker for assistance.