Canadian Forces Income Support FAQs

1. What is Canadian Forces Income Support (CFIS)?

The Canadian Forces Income Support (CFIS) is a tax-free monthly benefit for low-income Veterans, survivors, and orphans who meet the program requirements. CFIS supports Veterans who no longer qualify for the IRB, as well as certain survivors (i.e., those eligible for the benefit in respect of a non-service related death of a Veteran), while they search for employment or participate in an approved CTS.

The CFIS also provides income support, as a social safety net, to eligible orphans and survivors eligible in respect of the service-related death of a Veteran without the requirement to search for employment or participate in an approved CTS.

You cannot receive CFIS and IRB at the same time.

2. I have been receiving CFIS for a while. Why did I get an information letter?

Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) is improving how it shares information about your benefits.

The letter was sent to:

• Clearly explain CFIS benefit and exemptions;
• Remind you of your responsibilities while receiving the benefit; and
• Provide more details about how your payment is calculated.

Even if you’ve been receiving CFIS for some time, this information helps make sure you have the most up-to-date and complete details about your benefit.

3. What do I need to do to keep receiving CFIS?

Unless granted an exemption, Veterans and survivors eligible for CFIS in respect of the non-service related death of a Veteran:

• Look for work, and
• Take part in career transition services or other job search activities.

You must do this when you apply and on an ongoing basis, unless you have an approved exemption.

All CFIS recipients must also submit the following at the end of each month, and no later than the 10th of the following month: (regardless of exemption)

• a VAC660 (or a VAC760 form if self-employed); and
• your monthly pay stub or proof of income source.

4. What is Career Transition Services (CTS)?

Career Transition Services helps you with job searches, resume writing, interview skills, and finding employment. You can participate in any CTS program while receiving CFIS. However, did you know that CTS is a free VAC service? You can find more information at Career Transition Services.

5. How is my CFIS payment calculated?

A5. A − B − C = your monthly payment

• A = your base rate (based on client type and family composition)
• B = your income (and your spouse’s income, for Veterans only)
  • Includes a $10,000 yearly exemption (~$833/month)
  • Includes a $2,900 for single Veterans or $4,200 for Veterans with a spouse/common law yearly exemption for employment/self-employment and/or rental income
• C = other benefits (ie: Old Age Security, or Canadian Forces Long Term Disability)

Example:

1. Veteran married rate (April – June 2026): $3,133.56
2. Veteran’s monthly income (and spouse’s income): $500
3. Veteran’s offsets (CAF LTD): $1,000
   Total: $1,633.56 monthly payment

6. What counts as “other benefits” (offsets)?

Other benefits may include:

• Income Replacement Benefit (IRB)
• CAF Long-Term Disability (SISIP-LTD)
• Some RCMP disability pensions
• Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
• Certain compensation payments

If you are unsure if you are receiving something that counts as “other benefits”, please contact VAC.

7. What happens if my income changes?

You must tell VAC as soon as possible about any changes to your income by submitting a VAC 660 (or VAC760) form with proof of the change. Keeping us informed of changes to your income is the best way to prevent overpayment or underpayment. If more information or clarification is needed, VAC will contact you.

8. Do I always have to look for work?

Not always. You may qualify for an exemption. To be approved for an exemption, you need to provide a note from a doctor or licensed health professional. Exemptions are usually temporary and reviewed regularly; requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

9. What if I’m approved for a medical exemption?

Medical exemptions are meant to help during a temporary health issue. You must continue to:

• Submit a VAC660 (or VAC760 if self-employed) at the end of each month, no later than the 10th of the following month, and;
• Submit a monthly pay stub or proof of source of income.;

10. Do I need to participate in job searching or Career Transition Services (CTS) if I’m 65 or older?

No. If you are a Veteran, or survivor aged 65 or older, you are exempt from job search and CTS requirements, but are still required to: 

• Submit a VAC660 (or VAC760 if self-employed) at the end of each month, no later than the 10th of the following month, and; 
• Submit your monthly pay stubs or proof of income source (if still working) 

11. How do I send my forms?

A11. You can submit forms through My VAC Account (veterans.gc.ca/myvacaccount) or by sending them to:

Veterans Affairs Canada
BO Box 6000
Matane, QC G4W 0E4

12. Who can I contact if I have questions?

You can:

• Send a message through My VAC Account
• Call 1-866-522-2122 (TTY: 1-833-921-0071
• Request an in-person appointment using our online booking form or by calling 1-866-522-2122