What is the Canadian Dental Care Plan?
The Government of Canada has launched the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to enhance the accessibility and affordability of dental care for those who might otherwise be unable to afford necessary oral health services.
How Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan Work?
Set to begin in May 2024, the CDCP is a publicly funded dental benefit aimed at individuals with an annual household income under $90,000 who do not have private dental insurance. This plan covers part of the costs associated with oral health treatments to prevent and treat oral diseases, thereby protecting against more serious health issues.
How Can I Apply for the CDCP?
Applications will be accepted in phases from December 2023 to 2025.Starting in May 2024, seniors aged 65 and older can apply either online or by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Can Apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
To participate in the CDCP, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
- Have filed an income tax return for the previous year.
- Do not have dental insurance through a private or pension plan, or with an employer.
- Have a net (after tax) family income of less than $90,000 annually.
Application Phases:
- Seniors (65+): Eligible to apply starting in May 2024.
- Children under 18 and individuals with disabilities: Eligible to apply starting in June 2024.
- All other Canadian residents: Eligible to apply starting in 2025.
The table below shows the application schedule.
| Eligible Age Groups | Date Applications Open |
|---|---|
| Seniors 87+ | December 2023 |
| Seniors between 77 – 86 | January 2024 |
| Seniors between 72 – 76 | February 2024 |
| Seniors between 70 – 71 | March 2024 |
| Seniors between 65 – 69 | May 2024 |
| People holding a valid Disability Tax Credit Certificate | June 2024 |
| Children under 18 | June 2024 |
| All other eligible Canadian citizens and residents | 2025 |
How Can People Apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
For Seniors (Age 65 or Older):
- You will receive a letter with instructions and an application code. Follow the instructions in the letter to apply over the phone.
- If you haven’t received a letter but believe you are eligible, ensure that the mailing address used for your 2022 tax filing is current. If it is out of date, contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to update your address.
For Other Eligible Individuals:
- Starting in May 2024, you can apply online.
- As of now, detailed information on the online application process is unavailable.
Keep an eye on updates from the CDCP for more information on the online application process as it becomes available.
How Will I Receive Confirmation of My CDCP Enrollment?
After you apply for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), Health Canada will verify your eligibility and forward your information to Sun Life, which manages the plan’s enrollment process. Within three months of your application, you will receive a welcome package from Sun Life. This package will include:
- The start date of your coverage
- Your membership card
- Information about the CDCP
Make sure to keep an eye out for this package to stay informed about your coverage details.
For further information on services covered, please visit the Government of Canada website.
For more information call us now at: (514) 722-6575