Alberta Income Support
AB Income Support
Alberta Income Support provides financial help to low-income Albertans who are unemployed or underemployed and need help meeting basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. It includes two streams: Expected to Work (ETW) for people expected to find employment, and Barriers to Full Employment (BFE) for people facing challenges that make full employment difficult.
Useful Tips for Applying
If you have a disability, ask about the Barriers to Full Employment stream and about additional disability-related allowances. You can also be referred to health benefits and employment programs at the same time. Keep your caseworker updated if your income or living situation changes.
Who May Qualify
You may qualify if you are at least 18 years old, live in Alberta, are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, refugee or refugee claimant, have low or no income and limited assets, and are either expected to work or have barriers to full employment. People with disabilities may be assessed for the Barriers to Full Employment stream.
Required Documents
Government-issued ID, proof of Alberta residency, Social Insurance Number, proof of income and assets (bank statements, pay stubs), and information about your housing costs.
How to Apply
Apply online through your verified Alberta.ca Account, or visit a local Alberta government office for help. A caseworker will assess your income, assets, and situation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is not reporting all income and assets, which can lead to overpayments you must repay later. Another is assuming you must be fully unemployed — underemployed people with very low income can also qualify. People also miss that health benefits may be available alongside the income payment.
Where to Get Help
An Alberta Supports Centre or the Alberta government contact line can help you start an application and find additional programs. Community legal aid can help with appeals if your application is denied.
Am I Eligible?
Answer three quick questions to see your recommended next step. This is general guidance, not an eligibility decision.
Question 1 of 3
You may also be eligible for…
Alberta Disability Assistance Program
ADAP is Alberta's disability income program for Albertans 18+ whose severe disability significantly impedes employment (continuously or episodically) but does not prevent it. Launched July 2026, it provides a $1,740/month core financial benefit, health and personal benefits, and higher employment-income exemptions than AISH. There is one combined application for AISH and ADAP. For full eligibility, income rules, working on ADAP, and the AISH-to-ADAP transition, see our ADAP guide.
Learn moreFamily Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD)
Helps Alberta families raising a child with a disability by funding services and supports such as respite care, specialized services, child-focused supports, and family support, so children can grow and develop at home.
Learn moreAssured Income for the Severely Handicapped
AISH is Alberta's longstanding disability income program for Albertans 18+ whose severe disability permanently prevents employment. As of July 2, 2026 it co-exists with the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP). AISH provides a $1,940/month standard living allowance plus health and personal benefits. There is one combined application for AISH and ADAP. For full eligibility, income rules, working while on AISH, the CDB interaction, and the AISH-to-ADAP transition, see our AISH guide.
Learn morePreparing an application?
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Application denied?
If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.
Resources in this area
The Epilepsy Association of Edmonton and Northern Alberta (EAENA)
The Epilepsy Association of Edmonton and Northern Alberta (EAENA) is a registered charity supporting people living with epilepsy and seizure disorders, and their families, throughout Edmonton and Northern Alberta. The organization provides programs, services, information, education, resources, and support related to living with epilepsy — including epilepsy education (Epilepsy 101), support programs for adults and families, information booklets in English and French, school and community education, and resources on driving, employment, and daily life with a neurological condition. EAENA serves children, youth, adults, and seniors affected by epilepsy across Edmonton and Northern Alberta, including communities north of Red Deer such as Fort McMurray and Wood Buffalo.
View details HealthcareAutism Society of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (Autism RMWB)
The Autism Society of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (Autism RMWB) is a local, community-based organization in Fort McMurray that creates an inclusive community through programs supporting autistic individuals and all those living with neurodiversity and disabilities, and supports their families across their lifespan. This is the local Wood Buffalo organization and is distinct from the national Autism Society Canada.
View details HealthcareTaproot Community Support Services
Taproot Community Support Services (formerly WJS Canada) is a CARF-accredited, employee-owned Canadian social services organization providing a range of disability and community support services, including supports for people with diverse abilities, family and community supports, specialized mental health and trauma services, acquired brain injury (ABI) services, Family Resource Centres, and Indigenous culturally-based programs (Spirit of Our Youth). Taproot operates in communities across Alberta, including Fort McMurray.
View detailsAccessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
