Eligibility for CPP Disability Benefits

CPP Disability Benefits Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits you must meet three basic requirements.

You must:

1) Be under the age of 65

2) Have made the required amount of contribution

3) Have both a severe and prolonged disability as defined in the CPP legislation.

Severe Disability

CPP defines severe as being a condition that makes “a person incapable of regularly pursuing any substantially gainful occupation”.

Prolonged Disability

CPP defines prolonged: “as such severe disability likely to be long, continuous and of indefinite duration or is likely to result in death.

Options When a CPP Disability Benefits Application Has Been Rejected

If your CPP Disability Benefits claim has been turned down then you may appeal the decision.  The first step of the appeal process after your CPP Disability Benefits application has been refused is the Reconsideration Process. This must take place in writing to the Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRSDC) within 90 days of receiving your denial letter from HRSDC.  A lawyer can help you with this.   If you are not satisfied with the results of the Reconsideration Process then the next step is an appeal to the Office of the Commissioner of Review Tribunals. If you are not satisfied with the results of the Appeal to the Office of the Commissioner of Review Tribunals then you may appeal the decision to the Pension Appeals Board.