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Provincial Program · Alberta

Special Needs Assistance for Seniors

SNA Seniors

A cash benefit that helps low-income Alberta seniors with the cost of assistive devices and personal supports not covered by other programs, such as walkers, hearing aids, and some medical supplies.

Last reviewed: September 2026

Useful Tips for Applying

The maximum monthly benefit is $115 (2026). Keep all your receipts. The benefit is income-tested.

Who May Qualify

Alberta seniors 65 and over who receive the Old Age Security pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (or the Alberta Seniors Benefit) and whose income is below the threshold.

Required Documents

Receipts for eligible expenses, proof of income, and the application form.

How to Apply

Apply online through the Alberta Seniors and Housing portal, or submit the Special Needs Assistance application by mail with your receipts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not keeping receipts. Applying for expenses that are already covered by AADL or other programs — those are excluded.

Preparing an application?

The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.

Open Application Helper

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Need help from a real person?

Free disability-benefits navigation services are available if you'd like help understanding or applying for this benefit.

Government-funded navigation service

Voice of Albertans with Disabilities (VAD)

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Plan Institute — Disability Planning Helpline

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Languages: English, Interpretation in ASL and other languages on request

Government-funded navigation service

Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada — GAIN Program

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Languages: English, French

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.

Read the Appeals Guide

Resources in this area

HealthcareEdmonton

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.

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Caregiver ResourcesFort McMurray

McMan Youth, Family & Community Services — Fort McMurray

McMan Youth, Family and Community Services Association (Edmonton and North region) provides family support, respite and disability services in Fort McMurray. McMan is a not-for-profit social service agency serving communities across northern Alberta, including Fort McMurray.

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HousingFort McMurray

Wood Buffalo Housing & Development Corporation

Wood Buffalo Housing & Development Corporation (WBH) is a not-for-profit organization that has provided safe, affordable housing in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo since 2001. It offers programs for every level of housing need, including rent subsidy and community housing, near-market rentals, and seniors housing, including accessible units.

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Accessible 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.

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