Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD)
PDD
Supports Alberta adults with developmental disabilities to live, work, and take part in their community through residential, employment, community access, and specialized supports.
Useful Tips for Applying
Supports are individualized. Families and guardians can take part in planning. There may be waitlists for residential supports.
Who May Qualify
Adults 18 and over with a developmental disability (an IQ below 70 with limits in adaptive functioning, with onset before age 18) who live in Alberta.
Required Documents
A psychological or diagnostic assessment confirming the developmental disability, and the PDD application and eligibility determination.
How to Apply
Contact your local PDD office to start the eligibility assessment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Confusing this with FSCD, which is for children. Assuming supports are automatic — they require an eligibility assessment and planning.
Preparing an application?
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
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. AISH clients who transitioned to ADAP in July 2026 receive a $200 monthly transition benefit that keeps their financial benefit equal to their existing AISH amount until December 31, 2027. 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.
View detailsAlberta 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.
View detailsFamily 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.
View detailsApplication 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.
