Disability Equipment & Assistive Technology Funding in Canada

"Assistive technology" and "disability equipment" are broad terms for items that help a person with a disability live, work, communicate, or move more independently. Common examples include:

• wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes, crutches, and other mobility aids;
• transfer equipment, patient lifts, and standing aids;
• communication devices and speech-generating aids;
• screen readers, magnifiers, and computer accessibility tools;
• adapted keyboards, switches, and alternative input devices;
• hearing aids, cochlear implant supplies, and alerting devices;
• vision aids such as braille displays and electronic magnifiers;
• ergonomic seating, specialized seating, and positioning supports;
• environmental controls and electronic aids to daily living;
• home accessibility equipment such as ramps, stair lifts, and grab bars; and
• workplace accommodation equipment such as adapted workstations and assistive software.

Some programs cover only specific categories (for example, mobility or communication devices) and may require an assessment or prescription. The examples above are general — what a given program will fund depends on its rules.

There is no single Canada-wide program that pays for all disability equipment. Funding may come from several sources, and more than one can apply to the same person. None of these sources is guaranteed to cover any specific item.

Most direct equipment funding in Canada is provincial or territorial. Below is a concise overview of the main government pathway in each jurisdiction where Accessible Compass has verified one. Where we have not yet verified a named program, we say so and point you to that jurisdiction's resource directory rather than guessing. Programs, eligibility, and coverage change — confirm details with the program or your provincial resource directory before purchasing.

Workers with disabilities may be able to obtain assistive technology or ergonomic equipment as part of a workplace accommodation. The process generally involves:

1. identifying a disability-related barrier at work;
2. discussing accommodation needs with your employer;
3. providing appropriate supporting information where requested (such as a note or assessment); and
4. considering reasonable accommodation options together with your employer.

What counts as a reasonable accommodation depends on the situation, the job, the size and resources of the employer, and the specific barrier. This guide does not provide legal advice and cannot promise that a specific item must be purchased. If you are exploring workplace accommodations, you may also find our Workers' Compensation guide helpful when the barrier relates to a workplace injury.

Equipment may sometimes be funded when it relates to an accepted workplace injury or occupational condition. Workers' compensation boards can cover medical and rehabilitation equipment tied to an accepted claim, but eligibility depends on the claim and the board's rules — workers' compensation does not provide general disability-equipment funding for everyone.

For the board that handles workers' compensation where you work, common types of support, and how to file or appeal a claim, see our Workers' Compensation in Canada guide.

Certain disability-related medical or accessibility expenses may potentially qualify under Canadian tax rules depending on the expense and your circumstances. This is not tax advice, and tax rules change — confirm with the Canada Revenue Agency or a qualified tax professional.

• Medical expense tax credit. Some eligible medical expenses, including certain assistive devices and equipment, may be claimed as medical expenses on your tax return. CRA — eligible medical expenses (Canada.ca)
• Disability supports deduction. If you have an impairment in physical or mental functions, you may be able to claim some expenses as a disability supports deduction (line 21500). This is separate from the medical expense credit and the rules differ.
• GST/HST relief. Many medical and assistive devices are zero-rated for GST/HST, meaning no GST/HST is charged on the sale. CRA — Medical and Assistive Devices (GST/HST)

When government coverage is unavailable, disability organizations, foundations, service clubs, community organizations, and equipment-lending programs may sometimes help. These vary by location and by the type of equipment needed.

The best way to find them is to search the Accessible Compass resource directory by province and by resource category (for example, "Equipment & Assistive Tech", "Disability Advocacy", or "Healthcare"). You can also browse resources by province or territory to find organizations that may offer equipment, loans, or funding near you.

Many programs require funding approval before you purchase. If you buy first, you may not be reimbursed. Use this checklist before spending money:

Follow this simple pathway. The order helps you avoid paying for something a program might have funded.

These existing Accessible Compass pages may help depending on your situation. They are separate programs — qualifying for one does not automatically qualify you for another.