MSP Supplementary Benefits
MSP Supp
Coverage for eligible low-income BC residents for supplementary health services such as physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic, podiatry, naturopathy, and acupuncture.
Useful Tips for Applying
Coverage is up to a combined annual limit of about 10 visits per service type, such as physiotherapy or chiropractic. It is income-based, so file your taxes.
Who May Qualify
BC residents with an adjusted net income below the set thresholds who have MSP coverage.
Required Documents
A filed income tax return and MSP enrolment.
How to Apply
Apply through MSP and Health Insurance BC. Supplementary benefits are assessed based on your prior year's tax return.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Thinking this covers all services — there is a visit limit per practitioner type. Not realizing the income thresholds change each year.
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…
BC Medical Equipment and Devices
This is not a universal BC equipment program. Eligibility is tied to BC income assistance and disability assistance (the Employment and Assistance Regulation and the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Regulation). The ministry may provide the least expensive, appropriate medical equipment and devices to eligible recipients when there is a medically essential need and no other resources available to pay for the item. Covered items include canes, crutches, walkers, manual and power wheelchairs, wheelchair seating systems, scooters, toileting, transfer and positioning aids, hospital beds and related items, pressure-relief mattresses, and floor or ceiling lifts. Separate but related health-supplement policies also cover breathing devices (such as positive airway pressure devices and nebulizers), hearing instruments (hearing aids, repairs, and related items for eligible recipients, including children under 19 in families eligible for MSP supplementary benefits), and orthoses (custom foot orthotics, orthopaedic footwear, and ankle, knee, hip, upper-extremity, torso, and cranial braces). The ministry must approve requests before purchase, and a prescription or assessment from a qualified health professional is generally required. Items purchased without prior approval are not normally reimbursed, except in life-threatening emergencies.
View detailsBC Transportation Supplement
A monthly transportation supplement included with BC disability assistance to help Persons with Disabilities (PWD) recipients with transportation costs.
View detailsBC Bus Pass Program for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities
A reduced-cost annual transit pass for eligible low-income seniors and persons with disabilities in British Columbia.
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
Disability Alliance BC (DABC)
DABC is a provincial cross-disability organization that supports British Columbians with disabilities through advocacy, public education, and direct assistance. Its Advocacy Access program provides one-to-one help applying for provincial and federal disability benefits.
View details Legal ServicesAccess Pro Bono
Free legal services for low-income BC residents, including disability benefit appeals, human rights complaints, and access-to-justice programs.
View details RecreationBC Wheelchair Sports Association
Provides wheelchair sports and adaptive recreation programs across BC including basketball, tennis, rugby, and athletics for people with physical disabilities.
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.
