If you’re approaching your 65th birthday and looking into financial assistance programs in Alberta, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria and application process. This guide provides all the details you need to determine if you qualify and how to apply for various senior financial assistance programs.
Table of Contents
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for seniors financial assistance in Alberta, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must be 65 years of age or older.
- Residency: You need to have lived in Alberta for at least 3 months immediately before applying.
- Citizenship: You must be a Canadian citizen or have been admitted into Canada for permanent residence.
For a quick check on your eligibility, use the Seniors Benefit Estimator.
Note: If you or your spouse/partner have opted to defer or delay receiving Old Age Security (OAS), you will not qualify for the following programs:
- Alberta Seniors Benefit
- Special Needs Assistance for Seniors
- Dental and Optical Assistance for Seniors Programs
How to Apply for Seniors Financial Assistance
You should receive an information package from the Government of Alberta outlining the application process approximately 6 months before your 65th birthday. If you haven’t received this package, contact the Alberta Supports Contact Centre at 1-877-644-9992.
To avoid delays, it’s recommended to apply as soon as you receive this package. You may apply up to one year before your 65th birthday.
Application Methods
You can apply online at sfa.alberta.ca to enroll in various programs such as:
- Alberta Seniors Benefit
- Special Needs Assistance for Seniors
- Dental and Optical Assistance for Seniors
- Coverage for Seniors’ programs
You only need to submit one application.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Read the Information Booklet Review the Seniors Financial Assistance Programs Information Booklet to understand the details and requirements.
- Select an Application Option Complete your application using one of the following methods:
- Apply Online: Visit sfa.alberta.ca.
- Download and Print: Obtain the application form, complete it, and print it.
- Request by Mail: Call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre at 1-877-644-9992 to request an application form by mail.
- Income Estimate Form: Use this if you’ve experienced a decrease in income compared to your most recent tax return and are applying for the Alberta Seniors Benefit program for the first time.
- Income Information Form: Complete this if you have not filed your income tax return for the previous calendar year.
- Direct Deposit Request
- Undertaking to Administer Benefits and Certificate of Incapability
- Authorization of Representative
- Submit Your Documents Send your completed application and supporting documents using one of the following methods:
- Submit Online
- Fax: 780-422-5954
- Mail: Seniors Financial Assistance PO Box 3100 Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4W3
After You Apply
Processing your application typically takes about 16 weeks. The department will contact you if additional information is needed. Once reviewed, you will receive a letter detailing your benefit eligibility.
Annual Review
You need to complete the application process only once. Eligibility and income thresholds are reviewed annually and adjusted as needed. On July 1 each year, the department will review your eligibility based on your previous year’s income tax return. If eligible, you will receive a notification letter in July.
Updating Your Information
To ensure you receive your benefits without interruption, keep your information up-to-date. Update the following via your verified MyAlberta Seniors account:
- Name
- Marital Status (available online soon)
- Mailing or Residence Address
- Banking Information
Also, notify the department if:
- You will be out of the province for more than one month.
- You move out of Alberta.
- You appoint a Trustee/Power of Attorney to act on your behalf.
- You need to report the death of a recipient.
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Submit changes by:
- Online Submission
- Fax: 780-422-5954
- Phone: 1-877-644-9992 (have your Personal Health Care card ready)
- Mail: Seniors Financial Assistance PO Box 3100 Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4W3
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth application process and continue to receive the support you need as you transition into retirement.