How to apply for disability benefits

Find out how to apply for disability benefits if you are totally and permanently disabled.

If you are totally and permanently disabled, you may be eligible for a disability benefit. This pays you a monthly benefit and replaces any termination benefits or retirement pension you would normally receive as a member of BC's Municipal Pension Plan.

If you are eligible for a disability benefit, write to us within two years from when you were last credited with service in the plan to let us know you want to apply. If you're unsure when you were last credited with service, please contact us.

We will assess your application and provide you with:

• An estimate of the monthly payment you may be entitled to receive
• Information about next steps, including a report you must have your doctor complete that will outline the nature of your disability

Once we receive the completed medical report, we will appoint an independent doctor to provide a second report.

If your application is approved, we will pay your disability benefit in one of two ways, depending on whether you have a spouse:

• A single life pension, which is paid to you for as long as you live
• A joint life pension, which is paid to you for as long as you live
  • if you die before your spouse, the pension is paid to your spouse for as long as they live

There is no bridge benefit.

However, you may be eligible for a separate disability benefit from the Canada Pension Plan.

If you are applying for disability benefits and you have a former spouse with entitlement to your pension, we may request additional documents. Please review the Divorce and Separation topic pages for more information.