Alberta Regulation 96/2026, the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) General Regulation, updates Alberta’s disability income support framework. The regulation replaces the previous 2007 regulation and establishes updated rules governing eligibility, benefits, administration, and oversight under the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped Act. It also introduces the new Alberta Disability Assistance (ADA) program while maintaining support for individuals whose disabilities permanently prevent employment.

The regulation establishes two primary streams of disability support. The traditional AISH program serves individuals whose severe disabilities permanently prevent employment, while the Alberta Disability Assistance program supports individuals whose disabilities substantially impede employment but may still allow some workforce participation. Both programs apply income and asset tests. Generally, applicants and their cohabiting partners must have assets of $100,000 or less, although a lower threshold of $5,000 applies for certain personal benefits. Medical and psychological documentation is required to substantiate disability claims, and directors are responsible for assessing the impact of disabilities on employment capacity.

The regulation establishes detailed benefit structures. Individuals whose disabilities permanently prevent employment may receive a monthly living allowance of $1,940, while those whose disabilities substantially impede employment may receive $1,740 per month. Couples who both qualify receive 88 percent of the standard amount each. Residents of approved care facilities receive a modified living allowance consisting of a $373 personal allowance plus accommodation charges up to approved limits.

An important reform is the introduction of annual indexing. Beginning in the year following implementation, living allowances, child benefits, and many personal benefits will be adjusted annually using the Alberta escalator, helping maintain purchasing power and ensuring benefits better reflect inflationary pressures.

Further provisions authorize the appointment of financial administrators to manage benefits on behalf of vulnerable recipients when necessary. The regulation also establishes procedures for addressing underpayments, recovering debts owed to the government, and administering repayment arrangements.

Finally, Alberta Regulation 96/2026 repeals the previous 2007 AISH regulation and includes a mandatory review mechanism through a sunset clause that causes the regulation to expire on April 30, 2030, unless renewed. The regulation aims at creating a more flexible disability support framework that balances income security, employment participation, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

Alberta (96/2026) Jun 2, 2026
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and does not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.