Get the best disability insurance BC in 2025: Free quotes
- Monthly benefits not subject to taxation
- Professional rehabilitation program
- Premium waiver in case of total disability
- 4 optional coverage endorsements available
- Monthly benefits not subject to taxation
- Professional rehabilitation program
- Premium waiver in case of total disability
- 4 optional coverage endorsements available
The Superior Program by iA Financial Group is a flexible and inclusive disability insurance option offering up to $120,000 in total coverage, available to individuals working as little as 21 hours per week, with no minimum income requirement - a rare feature in this market. It accommodates a broad spectrum of occupations, from class 4A to C, and provides non-taxable monthly benefits, boosting its real value in case of a claim. Notably, it includes access to a vocational rehabilitation program, supporting the return to work after a disability. The policy can be renewed until age 70 and offers four optional riders to tailor protection to individual needs. Its design is particularly welcoming to newcomers to Canada, who often face barriers with more traditional underwriting.
Ideal profile:
Best suited for self-employed professionals, part-time workers, or recent immigrants who may not meet typical income thresholds but still want meaningful protection against income loss due to disability.
- No minimum pre-tax income required
- Non-taxable monthly benefits
- Vocational rehabilitation support included
- Renewability up to age 70
- Strong flexibility with optional riders
- Maximum coverage capped at $120,000
- Limited to occupational classes 4A to C (excludes higher-risk jobs)
- Riders not automatically included—extra cost may apply
- Total or partial disability
- Combines with group insurance
- Premium refunds
- Total or partial disability
- Combines with group insurance
- Premium refunds
Beneva’s Disability Insurance provides accessible coverage up to $72,000, targeting a wide range of professionals in classes 4A to B—without requiring a minimum income or medical questionnaire, making it especially easy to qualify. It can be renewed until age 65 and offers the option to combine with existing group insurance, which can increase overall benefits. A standout feature is its premium refund option, which allows policyholders to recoup some costs if no claim is made. With four optional riders, this plan is adaptable to personal and professional needs while remaining simple and inclusive.
Ideal profile:
Great for freelancers, part-time professionals, or newcomers to the workforce seeking basic, hassle-free protection—especially those looking for insurance without needing to prove income or undergo medical underwriting.
- No income or medical requirements
- Premium refund feature adds long-term value
- Can be combined with group coverage
- Four optional riders for customization
- Coverage limit of $72,000 may be too low for high earners
- Not renewable beyond age 65
- Restricted to lower-risk occupational classes (4A to B)
- Option for total or partial disability
- 13 optional coverage endorsements available
- Included rehabilitation benefit
- Indemnity periods of 24, 60, 120 months
- Option for total or partial disability
- 13 optional coverage endorsements available
- Included rehabilitation benefit
- Indemnity periods of 24, 60, 120 months
Canada Life’s Independence Protection Insurance stands out with an impressive maximum coverage of $300,000, making it one of the most robust individual disability insurance products available. Aimed at professional classes 4A to B, it requires a minimum net income of $35,000, balancing accessibility with comprehensive protection. The plan offers up to 120 months of benefits, a partial disability option, and a generous suite of 13 optional riders to tailor coverage. With non-cancellable terms until age 65 and no medical questionnaire required, it delivers strong stability and flexibility—particularly attractive for those with fluctuating employment patterns, like part-time or seasonal workers.
Ideal profile:
Designed for mid- to high-income earners such as self-employed consultants or gig economy professionals who meet the income threshold and want long-term, customizable protection without medical underwriting.
- Very high coverage ceiling ($300,000)
- No medical exam required
- 13 optional riders allow detailed customization
- Partial disability coverage included
- Long benefit period (up to 10 years)
- Requires minimum net income of $35,000
- Only available to occupational classes 4A to B
- Not renewable beyond age 65
- Premiums guaranteed for the first 5 years
- Critical illnesses automatically included
- Premium return at 20 years
- Premiums guaranteed for the first 5 years
- Critical illnesses automatically included
- Premium return at 20 years
Humania’s Prohealth Accident and Sickness Insurance is a highly inclusive plan offering up to $120,000 in coverage, open to all professional classes and requiring no minimum income or medical questionnaire, making it easy to access for a wide audience. It includes critical illness coverage by default, which is uncommon in this segment, and offers a premium refund every 20 years, adding long-term financial value. The plan is renewable until age 65, with premiums guaranteed for the first five years, providing stability and predictability. Its simplicity and wide eligibility make it a standout for those needing straightforward, all-in-one coverage.
Ideal profile:
Perfect for blue-collar workers, self-employed individuals, or newcomers to Canada looking for hassle-free, broad-spectrum protection that combines disability and critical illness in one plan.
- No income or medical requirements
- Covers all occupational classes
- Includes critical illness coverage automatically
- Premium refund every 20 years
- Guaranteed premiums for 5 years
- Coverage capped at $120,000
- No renewal beyond age 65
- Fewer customization options compared to higher-end products
- Offers a wide range of products tailored to different profiles and needs
- Competitive premiums and rates
- Personalised cover and optional benefits
- Access to disability assistance and support services
- Offers a wide range of products tailored to different profiles and needs
- Competitive premiums and rates
- Personalised cover and optional benefits
- Access to disability assistance and support services
RBC’s Professional Series® Policy is a solid mid-range disability insurance plan offering up to $72,000 in coverage, targeting professional classes 4A to A. It requires a relatively low minimum income of $6,000 annually and at least 30 hours of work per week, balancing accessibility with traditional underwriting standards. The plan is non-cancellable until age 65, ensuring long-term stability, and includes partial and residual disability benefits, which are crucial for gradual return-to-work scenarios. It also features seven optional riders for added flexibility and is available without a medical questionnaire, simplifying the application for healthy applicants.
Ideal profile:
Ideal for full-time salaried professionals, especially those early in their careers or earning a modest income, who want dependable protection with strong built-in benefits and the option to expand coverage.
- Non-cancellable until age 65
- Partial and residual disability coverage included
- Low income requirement ($6,000/year)
- Seven riders available for customization
- No medical exam needed
- Limited to professional classes 4A to A
- Maximum coverage capped at $72,000
- Requires minimum 30 hours of work per week
In British Columbia, Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits provide crucial support if you're unable to work due to a disability, but they may not fully meet your financial needs, offering a maximum of approximately $1,358.42 per month.
This is where the role of private disability insurance BC becomes essential, as it can cover 60-85% of your income, effectively bridging the gap left by provincial benefits.
In this guide, we delve into the workings of disability benefits BC, helping you find a private disability insurance plan tailored to your needs. Use our free tool to explore the best disability insurance plans in BC and get free quotes right here.
Disability insurance BC: 5 Key takeaways
- PWD Benefits: Offers up to $1,358.42/month, might not cover all needs.
- Private Insurance: Covers 60-85% of income, bridges the gap left by PWD benefits.
- Coverage Options: Available through employers or directly from insurers.
- Premium Costs: Range from 1% to 9% of annual salary, varies by several factors.
- Compare Plans: Use our free HelloSafe comparator to compare plans and get free quotes.
How does disability insurance BC work?
Disability insurance in British Columbia can work in several different ways depending on how you sign up. First, you should check to see if your employer already provides disability insurance through a group coverage plan. Some jobs will pay for and provide disability insurance coverage for all employees through group disability insurance plans.
Alternatively, you can sign up for private or group disability insurance separate from your work through a life and health insurance company. If you are self-employed you can get disability insurance that covers business expenses while unable to work. The cost of self-employed disability insurance will vary based on plan type and the age of the applicant.
Disability insurance typically covers between 60% and 80-85% of regular income up to a certain amount and also covers temporary and permanent disabilities due to injury or illness. Permanent disability does not mean that you will have benefits for the rest of your life but for the timeframe specified by your disability insurance.
Are you looking for a company that can offer you BC disability insurance? Or perhaps you're unhappy with the one you already have? Look no further.
You may compare the pricing and coverage features of the best disability policies using our comparison tool. Click the button below and explore the best short-term and long term disability insurance BC plans right here. Get free quotes and find a plan that fits you best.
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How much does disability insurance cost in BC?
Disability insurance premiums in Canada, including British Columbia, typically vary from 1% to 9% of your annual salary. The following factors can have an impact on the price:
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Age | You will pay less for disability insurance and many other health products if you are younger. Because younger people are less likely to have a disability, the cost of disability insurance for them is reduced. |
| Gender | According to recent studies, women are more likely than men to make disability claims, which are also likely to be more expensive. As a result, women may pay a higher premium for disability insurance despite paying less for life and auto insurance. |
| Occupation | The cost of your BC disability program is influenced more by your occupation than by your income. As a result, the riskier your profession, the higher the cost of your insurance. |
| Health | Insurance companies, like any other life or health insurance company, examine your medical history to determine whether or not to provide you with disability insurance and, if so, how much it will cost. |
| Smoking status | Smoking (or tobacco use) is the leading cause of disability and early death in Canada, with 45,000 deaths per year. As a result, quitting smoking has numerous health benefits, as well as lower disability insurance premiums and/or higher insurance benefits. |
What are the best disability insurance BC plans?
The best disability insurance BC plan depends on your specific requirements, financial limits, and other personal factors. However, here are the top options for comprehensive and varied disability coverage from top providers like iA Financial, Canada Life, RBC, Manulife, and more.
| Insurance Plan | Key Features | Key Coverage | Get a quote |
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| iA Superior Program (iA disability insurance) |
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| Canada Life Independence Plan |
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| Beneva |
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| Humania Income Insurance - Accident and Sickness |
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| RBC Professional Series® |
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| Manulife Personal Accident Disability Insurance (long term disability insurance manulife) |
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| RBC Quantum® |
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| Humania Assurance - Accident | A broad range of occupational classes |
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| RBC Bridge Series® |
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| RBC The Foundation Series™ Policy |
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| iA Acci-Jet Program |
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How much are disability benefits in BC?
The provincial disability benefits in British Columbia are provided through the British Columbia Persons with Disabilities (PWD) program, administered by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.
This program is designed to offer financial assistance and health-related benefits to eligible residents who have a severe physical or mental impairment that significantly restricts their ability to perform daily living activities over at least two years.
The benefits include a monthly financial payment, which can help cover living expenses and may also include supplementary health and wellness benefits, such as medical supplies and equipment, dental and optical care, and transportation subsidies.
In British Columbia, the amount for disability benefits can vary based on individual circumstances, such as living arrangements, income, and family size. In the table below are examples of typical monthly payments.
| Family structure | Benefit amount |
|---|---|
| Single | $1,358.50 |
| Single parent with one child | $1,703.50 |
| You and your spouse have a Persons with Disabilities designation and have no children | $2,143.50 |
| You and your spouse have Persons with Disabilities designation and have no children | $2,423.50 |
Good to know
Disability benefits work differently across Canadian provinces. Take a look at our comprehensive guides on disability benefits and disability insurance in Alberta, disability insurance in Quebec, and disability insurance in Ontario.
What are other disability benefits available in BC?
BC disability benefits go beyond financial support, and you may be eligible for supplements in addition to financial assistance to deal with additional expenses that people with disabilities may encounter. Check the table below for some of those supplements:
| Benefit | Summary |
|---|---|
| Bus pass | Low-income seniors can get a reduced-cost bus pass. |
| Christmas | The amount of money will be automatically added to your December payment to help with Christmas expenses. |
| Clothing | You may be able to get money to purchase the necessary clothing |
| Co-operative housing share purchase | If you're moving into co-op housing, you might be eligible for financial assistance to cover the cost of your membership share, which money you must reimburse when you relocate or leave assistance. |
| Crisis Supplement | Is a payment for unexpected emergencies that threaten you or your family’s health or safety. |
| Funeral Costs | When a person dies and there isn't enough money to pay for their funeral, the government may be able to help. This is available to anyone in BC with a low income who has no other means of support, even if they are not on government assistance. |
| Guide dog and service dog | An amount to assist you with the expenses of your certified guide dog team, service dog team, or retired guide or service dog team. |
| Moving, transportation, and living costs | You may be eligible for this benefit if you meet one of the following conditions: If you are not qualified for Work BC assistance, and you are starting a confirmed job. If you are required to attend a court hearing when receiving family maintenance assistance. Obtaining a paternity blood test that has been ordered by a court. If you must find a new place to reside because your present home has been sold or condemned |
| School start-up | For children under the age of 19, extra money may be available to purchase back-to-school essentials. |
What are BC's disability payment dates in 2025?
The BC disability payment is issued monthly and there are two ways to receive your financial BC disability benefits (direct deposit or by cheque), and each one has different payment dates. For direct deposit of benefits into your bank account, you must sign up at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/.
BC disability payment dates by cheque in 2025
- January 17, 2024 (for February 2024)
- February 14, 2024 (for March 2024)
- March 20, 2024 (for April 2024)
- April 17, 2024 (for May 2024)
- May 15, 2024 (for June 2024)
- June 19, 2024 (for July 2024)
- July 17, 2024 (for August 2024)
- August 21, 2024 (for September 2024)
- September 18, 2024 (for October 2024)
- October 23, 2024 (for November 2024)
- November 20, 2024 (for December 2024)
- December 18, 2024 (for January 2025)
What is the child disability benefit in BC?
The child disability benefit in British Columbia (CDB) is a tax-free monthly payment for families caring for a child under the age of 18 who has severe and long-term impairment in physical or mental functions.
On the BC disability program, the following information is used to determine your CDB payments:
- The number of eligible children;
- AFNI (Adjusted family net income);
- And marital status.
Good to know
Would these amounts be enough to cover your week-to-week expenses? If not you may want to look into additional coverage from private providers of long term disability insurance.
What qualifies you for disability in BC?
Many ask how to qualify for disability in BC, and to be considered for the BC disability program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Demonstrate that you are financially eligible for assistance;
- Be at least 18 years old (you can begin the application procedure six months before becoming 18);
- Have a serious physical or mental disability that will persist for at least two years;
- Be severely limited in your capacity to carry out daily tasks;
- Require help with daily activities from someone else, an assistive device, or an aid animal.
How to apply for disability assistance in BC?
The application process for the BC disability program is composed of two main parts:
- Demonstrating that you are financially eligible for assistance;
- Filling out the application for Persons with Disabilities (PWD).
To obtain a Persons with Disabilities designation application, please contact the BC disability support program. This process is divided into three sections:
- You are responsible for completing the applicant section.
- The medical report is the responsibility of your doctor or nurse practitioner to fill up.
- The assessor report is completed by a designated professional. This could be a doctor, registered nurse, or social worker.
Once you submit your application, the BC disability program will go over it to assess if you meet the eligibility requirements for the PWD designation and inform you about the outcome.
What is the BC disability number and contact information?
To get your application going, you must contact the BC disability support program to obtain your PWD application and gather information about your process.
You can check the BC disability number and other forms of contacting them below:
| Contact | Method |
|---|---|
| Online | By their virtual service My Self Serve. |
| Toll-free information line | 1-866-866-0800 |
| In-person | Find your local office |
How long is short term disability in BC?
You may be wondering how long short-term disability insurance (STD) allows you to replace your income. STD can help you replace your salary for up to 17 or 26 weeks.
You must know that if you don't have short-term disability insurance and your employer doesn't provide it, you may be eligible for sickness benefits under Employment Insurance (EI).
To be eligible for EI sickness payments, you must meet the following requirements:
- Normally, you've used up all of your sick days;
- You've worked enough hours.
How long is long term disability in BC?
If you are unable to return to work at the end of the STD period, you may be eligible to convert to long-term disability insurance (LTD).
Every disability plan is unique. If you are unable to perform the same kind of work you were engaged in before, certain insurance companies may provide long-term disability benefits for up to two years. You may continue to get the benefits if you are still unable to work after two years.
Interested in seeing how private insurance compares? Get disability insurance BC quotes tailormade for you right here using our free tool below. Explore the best plans and compare their coverage easily using our comparator.
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How much is the disability tax credit in BC?
To increase tax equality by providing some relief for disability costs, which are inevitable extra expenses that other taxpayers do not have to deal with. The disability tax credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax benefit that assists people with disabilities and their caregivers in lowering their income tax liability.
Once a person is eligible for the DTC, they can claim the disability amount. This figure includes a bonus for those under the age of 18 at the end of the year.
The disability benefits BC amount in tax credit varies by year and profile. For previous years, see the chart below for the maximum federal disability allowances and the maximum supplement for children with disabilities.
| Year | Maximum disability allowance | Maximum supplement for children under 18 |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $8,662 | $5,053 |
| 2020 | $8,576 | $5,003 |
| 2019 | $8,416 | $4,909 |
| 2018 | $8,235 | $4,804 |
| 2017 | $8,113 | $4,733 |
| 2016 | $8,001 | $4,667 |
| 2015 | $7,899 | $4,607 |
Would these amounts be enough for you to cover your current expenses? If not you may want to consider purchasing additional coverage with short term or long term disability insurance from private providers. You can find the best plan right here using our free comparator tool below. Compare plans and get free disability insurance BC quotes in no time.
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