Nova Scotia

Disability Support Program

Complex application

Tax filing not required

The Disability Support Program (DSP) serves children, youth and adults with intellectual disabilities, long-term mental illness and physical disabilities in a range of community-based, residential and vocational/day programs.

These are voluntary programs designed to support people at various stages of their development and independence.

It includes things such as:

  • A Standard Household Rate which can give you money each month for your basic needs, including rent
  • Support for families that are caring for children with disabilities
  • Flexible funding for individuals
  • Job (vocational) programs
  • Options for different living supports

Visit the program page to see the full list of all supports that are available.

To be eligible, participants must:

  • Be 19 years of age or over, a resident of Nova Scotia, and lawfully entitled to be or remain in Canada.
  • Agree to sign a consent form.
  • Undergo a functional assessment of your support level requirements.
  • Provide a physician report for medical assessment.
  • Undergo financial assessment and sign a financial consent form.
  • Have a valid Nova Scotia health card.
  • Be diagnosed with 1 or more of the following primary disabilities:
    • Intellectual disability.
    • Long-term mental illness.
    • Physical disability.
    • Dual diagnosis.
    • Acquired brain injury.

Health card

For example:

  • valid health card with no photo, name and address
  • valid health card with photo, name and address
  • MCP (Medical Care Plan) number
  • Valid ambulance/dental services card
  • Department of Immigration, Skills and Labour identification number
  • Department of Immigration, Skills and Labour file number (Income Support Card).

Call the toll free intake line to complete the application over the phone: 1-877-424-1177.

Or you can visit your local Community Services office Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm.

Tell the person you speak to that you want to apply for Income Assistance. They will ask you questions to gain an understanding of your situation. Have these things with you when you make the call or visit the office:

  • bank statements for your accounts
  • your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
  • any other information that can help the caseworker understand your situation

Last updated: November 15, 2024