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Exceptional Incapacity Allowance

 
Some disabilities have a major financial impact on your life. The Exceptional Incapacity Allowance recognizes this extra cost with a tax-free monthly payment.

About this program

The Exceptional Incapacity Allowance is a tax-free monthly payment that recognizes that your serious illness or injury has a significant effect on your quality of life.

Veterans who receive this allowance usually experience one or more of the following to an exceptional degree or scope:

  • dependence,
  • continuing pain and discomfort,
  • loss of enjoyment of life,
  • shortened lifespan.

The amount of your allowance will be based on a grade that reflects the nature of your disability.

Do you qualify?

You should apply for the Exceptional Incapacity Allowance if you:

  • have a disability pension of 98 percent or more; or
  • have a combination of a disability pension and award that totals 98 percent or more; or
  • have a combination of a disability pension and Prisoner of War Compensation that totals 98 percent or more; and
  • have an exceptional incapacity that is related to the condition or conditions for which you receive a disability benefit.

How to apply

Apply online

If you are registered for My VAC Account, you can submit your application for this benefit online. If you aren't registered, you can register now.

My VAC Account

Mail or in person

Download the application form. Then, drop it off at a VAC office. You can also mail your completed application directly to the address listed on the form.

Go to form

Get help with your application

The staff at any VAC office can assist you, or call us at 1-866-522-2122.

Additional information

Find out more

See the current rates for this program: If you know your grade, the Exceptional Incapacity Allowance table shows the allowance amount by grade.

See the table of disabilities: For more details about grades.

Related programs

Disability benefits: Compensation to recognize that your injury or illness is a result of your military service.

Clothing Allowance: A monthly benefit when your disability causes wear and tear on your clothing or the need for custom-made clothing.

Attendance Allowance: Monthly payments if your health needs require personal care support.

Disability tax credit (DTC)

The DTC helps reduce the income tax that people with physical or mental impairments, or their supporting family members, may have to pay. It aims to offset some of the costs related to the impairment. Learn more about this non-refundable tax credit available through the Canada Revenue Agency.

Frequently asked questions

If I apply for the benefit and get declined, can I appeal?

Yes. If you are not satisfied with a decision you may apply in writing for a review. Learn more about your review and appeal options.

Will the allowance be payable to surviving spouses and children?

Yes. If the Veteran was receiving the allowance at the time of their death, eligible survivors can receive the allowance for a period of one year.

Are there policies for this program?

Yes. Read more about the Exceptional Incapacity Allowance policies.

 
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