Changes to Social Assistance

Important Information for People Who Receive Social Assistance Benefits

Social Assistance Rates Have Increased
The Yukon Government has increased the amount of money you receive for social assistance (SA). You will see this increase on your June 21, 2008 cheque.

The amount of extra money you receive depends on your situation, such as where you live, if you are single, if you have children, as well as other factors.

There have also been other changes to the Social Assistance Regulations, which may affect you. Below is a brief overview of the changes, please talk to your Case Manager or call your local Social Assistance office for more information. Contact information is provided below.

Earned Income Deduction
If you are on social assistance, and are able to work, you can now keep 50% of your employment income before your social assistance benefits are reduced. You can do this for up to three years. After three years, you will be able to keep 25% of your employment income.

Persons with Severe Disabilities
There have been changes for people with severe disabilities who are receiving social assistance. These changes will allow for more flexibility in how the program may be able to respond to your particular circumstances.

Federal Registered Disability Savings Plan and the Working Income Tax Benefit
For persons on social assistance who receive the above Savings Plan or Tax Benefit, it will not be counted as income for the purpose of determining benefit levels.

Improve and Clarify Administration of Social Assistance in Yukon
In order to ensure that the Regulations more properly reflect the intent of the Social Assistance Act the Regulations have been more clearly written to distinguish between what is “assistance” and what is considered “aid” or “welfare services”.