The GNWT is making some improvements to Income Assistance programs for elderly and disabled residents.
The Territorial Government says they are comitted to providing better supports to help residents develop greater financial security so that they can participate in community life and share in the opportunities available throughout the Northwest Territories.
These improvements and the creation of the IA for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities program were guided by engagement with Indigenous Governments, current and former clients, Non-Government Organizations, and various GNWT departments, as well as landlord and utility providers.
Stakeholders had the opportunity to provide their feedback on proposed options through virtual focus groups, telephone interviews, and written feedback. The public was also offered the opportunity to provide feedback through an online survey. The feedback received through these methods were gathered in a What We Heard Report and guided the development of the program changes.
Changes to the IA program include:
– Aligning benefit levels with the Northern Market Basket Measure, which considers the cost differences that range throughout the different regions of the NWT;
– Increasing income exemptions;
– Removing the productive choice requirement. Previously, each adult in the household needed to take part in a productive choice such as wage employment, career planning, volunteer community work or caring for an adult family member within two months of receiving income assistance;
– Removing the attachment to the labour market, such as the requirement to seek and maintain employment; and
– Reducing refusal periods.
Highlights of the new Income Assistance for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities program include:
– Intended for seniors (60+) or individuals with a permanent or long-term disability who are in financial need;
– An annual application;
– Annual income is based on the Canada Revenue Agency’s Notice of Assessment; and
– Benefit levels are aligned with the Northern Market Basket Measure.
Once the changes have been made, the details can be found by clicking here.
