Is Diabetes a Disability in Canada? Your Guide to Disability Benefits for Diabetes

Yes, diabetes is considered a disability in Canada, and you may qualify for benefits like long-term disability insurance, CPP disability, provincial disability programs, and the Disability Tax Credit. But here’s the catch—getting approved isn’t always easy.

Living with diabetes is more than just checking blood sugar and taking insulin. It can mean unpredictable highs and lows, exhaustion that knocks you off your feet, and complications that make everyday tasks feel impossible. And yet, many people are denied disability benefits simply because insurers and government programs underestimate how much diabetes can disrupt daily life and work.

That’s why knowing how to navigate the system is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about securing disability benefits for diabetes. You’ll learn how to build a strong application, what medical evidence you need, how to avoid common pitfalls, and what to do if your claim is denied. Whether you’re applying for the first time or fighting an unfair rejection, this guide will help you take the right steps toward getting the support you deserve.

Understanding diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar. It occurs when the body either doesn’t produce insulin or can’t use it properly. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps control blood sugar levels, ensuring the body has enough energy while preventing damage to organs, nerves, and blood vessels.

Diabetes is more common than many people realize. In Canada, around 3.8 million people over the age of one—or 9.6% of the population—live with diagnosed diabetes, excluding gestational diabetes. Additionally, more than 6% of Canadian adults have prediabetes, a condition that significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to the government of Canada.

The World Health Organization has recognized diabetes as one of the major public health challenges of this century, and for good reason. Rates of type 2 diabetes continue to rise, and it has become one of the most common chronic diseases among children and youth. While most young people with diabetes have type 1, type 2 diabetes is becoming more frequent due to increasing childhood obesity rates.

Types of Diabetes

There are four major types of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common, followed by type 1 diabetes. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and is usually temporary. Additionally, prediabetes is an important diagnosis that signals an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

1. Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body can’t produce insulin on its own. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin through injections or a pump to regulate their blood sugar.

This form of diabetes usually develops in childhood or adolescence, though it can also appear in adults. It accounts for 5-10% of all diabetes cases and remains the most common type of diabetes in children and youth.

Is type 1 diabetes considered a disability in Canada? Yes, type 1 diabetes is recognized as a disability in Canada. Individuals with this condition rely on life-sustaining therapies like insulin injections. Due to its impact on daily life, ongoing medical needs, and associated health risks, the Canadian government acknowledges type 1 diabetes as a qualifying disability.

2. Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, making up 90-95% of all cases. It occurs when the body either doesn’t use insulin properly or doesn’t produce enough of it. Without proper management, blood sugar levels can become dangerously high, leading to serious health complications.

Type 2 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in adults, but it is becoming increasingly common in younger people due to rising obesity rates. Some individuals can manage type 2 diabetes through diet and exercise, while others require medication or insulin therapy.

If you suspect you or a loved one may have type 2 diabetes, it’s important to consult a doctor as early as possible.

Is type 2 diabetes considered a disability in Canada? Yes, the Canadian government recognizes type 2 diabetes as a disability due to the daily challenges of managing blood sugar levels. Those who meet the eligibility criteria may qualify for benefits like the Disability Tax Credit or other disability support programs.

3. Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a temporary form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It happens when hormonal changes interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin properly, causing blood sugar levels to rise.

While gestational diabetes usually goes away after childbirth, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life—for both the mother and the child. Managing blood sugar levels during pregnancy is crucial for both of their health. This may involve dietary changes, regular physical activity, and, in some cases, insulin or medication.

Women who have had gestational diabetes should continue to monitor their blood sugar levels after pregnancy and take preventive steps to lower their long-term risk of type 2 diabetes.

4. Prediabetes

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. It is a serious warning sign that diabetes may develop in the future if no action is taken.

In Canada, more than 6% of adults live with prediabetes, though many are unaware of it because it often has no symptoms. The good news? Prediabetes can often be reversed or delayed with healthy lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Doctors can diagnose prediabetes with a simple blood test. If you have risk factors such as being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or living a sedentary lifestyle, it’s a good idea to get checked and take proactive steps to protect your health.

Interested in learning more about other conditions that qualify for disability benefits? Check out our article on medical conditions and disability benefits or browse the articles below:

Disability benefits for diabetes in Canada

Managing diabetes can be a full-time challenge, impacting everything from daily routines to long-term financial stability. Recognizing diabetes as a disability can open doors to financial support, helping cover medical expenses, lost income, and other hardships associated with the condition. Here are some key benefits available in Canada:

Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Long-Term Disability (LTD) Benefits
Short-Term Disability (STD) Benefits
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits
Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits
Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)
Provincial Disability Assistance Programs

Below, we’ll break down each benefit, how to qualify, and the steps to apply.

Disability Tax Credit (DTC) for diabetes

The Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit that helps people with diabetes reduce their income tax burden. To qualify, you must demonstrate that diabetes significantly affects your ability to carry out essential daily activities, such as monitoring blood glucose levels, administering insulin, or managing complications.

People with type 1 diabetes may qualify under the category of life-sustaining therapy by submitting a completed T2201 form (Disability Tax Credit Certificate) signed by a medical practitioner. As of 2021, additional information about time spent on permitted activities is no longer required.

People with type 2 diabetes who use insulin may also qualify under life-sustaining therapy but must provide details on time spent on CRA-permitted activities, ensuring they meet the 14-hour-per-week eligibility requirement. The enhanced 2021 list of permitted activities is available on the CRA website.

For applications covering years 2020 and earlier, individuals with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes who use insulin can apply retroactively (up to 10 years), provided they meet the 14-hour per week requirement based on the criteria applicable to those years. The historical list of permitted activities is also available on the CRA website.

If your claim is denied, you can request an internal review or escalate your appeal to the Tax Court of Canada if necessary.

Long-term disability (LTD) benefits

For those whose diabetes prevents them from working long-term, LTD benefits can provide financial stability by replacing a portion of lost income. Most LTD plans cover 60-70% of your pre-disability earnings, with benefits lasting several years or until retirement age, depending on the policy.

LTD coverage typically comes from

Employer group insurance plans
Union benefits packages
Private disability insurance policies

Applying for LTD benefits involves submitting forms from you, your employer, and your doctor to your insurance provider. If your claim is denied, you may appeal internally or escalate to an external legal review.

To learn more, check out our guide to long-term disability.

Short-term disability (STD) benefits

STD benefits offer temporary financial relief for those unable to work due to diabetes-related complications, such as severe hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, or diabetic neuropathy. These benefits typically cover at least 55% of weekly earnings (up to $668 per week) and last 15-17 weeks.

Employers may provide STD benefits through

Company-funded programs
Group insurance plans

If your employer does not offer STD benefits, you may be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits instead. However, you cannot receive both STD and EI at the same time.

Denial of an STD claim can be appealed through an internal review, and if necessary, through a legal dispute.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) disability benefits

CPP disability benefits provide monthly financial assistance to those with severe and prolonged disabilities that prevent them from working. Monthly payments in 2025 range from $598.49 to $1,606.78, depending on CPP contributions over time.

To qualify, you must:

Have contributed to CPP through employment or self-employment
Demonstrate that your diabetes is severe and prolonged, significantly impacting your ability to work

Applying for CPP disability involves submitting medical documentation and an application through Service Canada. If denied, you can request a reconsideration or appeal to the Social Security Tribunal.

Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness benefits

If diabetes temporarily prevents you from working, EI sickness benefits can provide financial support for up to 26 weeks. Payments cover 55% of your weekly earnings, up to $668 per week.

To qualify, you must:

Have contributed to EI through payroll deductions
Provide medical proof of your inability to work

Applications can be submitted online or at a Service Canada office. A Record of Employment (ROE) from your employer is also required.

Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)

The new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) aims to provide additional financial support to individuals with disabilities, including diabetes. This federally funded program is designed to supplement other disability benefits without affecting eligibility for existing support programs.

The proposed regulations say that to be eligible to receive the Benefit, you must meet the following criteria:

Age and residency:
- be between the ages of 18 and 64, and
- be resident in Canada for the purposes of the Income Tax Act
Status in Canada (one of the following):
- a Canadian citizen
- a permanent resident
- a protected person
- a temporary resident who has lived in Canada for the last 18 months, or
- someone who is registered or entitled to be registered under the Indian Act
Tax-related requirements
- Have a valid Disability Tax Credit Certificate and
- Have filed an income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency for the previous tax year (for example, filed a return for the 2024 tax year to be eligible for benefits from July 2025 to June 2026)

Please note the benefit is not yet available. However, the first payments are scheduled to begin in July 2025.

Provincial disability assistance for diabetes

Each province in Canada offers disability benefits for individuals with diabetes who meet specific eligibility criteria. Some examples include:

Provincial eligibility criteria and benefit amounts vary, so it’s best to check directly with your local government.

Need help with your claim?

Applying for disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with the daily challenges of managing diabetes. If your claim has been denied or you need assistance navigating the process, our experienced disability lawyers at Resolute Legal are here to help. Schedule your free consultation today!

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How to win a diabetes disability claim

Diabetes can be a life-altering condition, but securing disability benefits for it isn’t always straightforward. While diabetes is recognized as a disability in Canada, proving its severity and impact on daily life can be challenging. Success in a disability claim requires thorough preparation, strong medical evidence, and a clear understanding of eligibility criteria for different benefits programs.

Many people with diabetes struggle with serious complications, such as neuropathy, vision impairment, and chronic fatigue, yet still face skepticism when applying for disability benefits. To improve your chances of a successful claim, consider following these key strategies:

1. Gather strong medical evidence

The backbone of any diabetes disability claim is comprehensive medical documentation. Your medical records should clearly outline your diagnosis, complications, and how your condition affects your ability to work and perform daily tasks.

Essential medical documents include:

Clinical notes from your healthcare provider
Blood glucose monitoring records
Diagnostic test results (A1C levels, eye exams, kidney function tests)
Treatment history, including insulin therapy, medication adjustments, and complications
Reports from specialists such as endocrinologists, neurologists, and ophthalmologists
Medical records of other conditions you suffer from

2. Strengthening your case with multiple medical conditions

Including multiple medical conditions in your claim can significantly enhance your chances of approval. Many individuals with diabetes experience co-occurring conditions such as:

Neuropathy (nerve damage leading to chronic pain and mobility issues)
Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying, causing nausea and digestion issues)
Vision impairment (such as diabetic retinopathy)
Chronic fatigue and weakness
Mental health conditions (such as depression and anxiety related to chronic illness)
Other chronic conditions (such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, etc.)

By presenting a holistic view of your health challenges, you strengthen the argument that your condition is severe and prolonged, making it difficult or impossible to sustain gainful employment.

Case example

A case before the Social Security Tribunal (SST) of Canada highlights the challenges of securing CPP disability benefits and how strong medical evidence and procedural fairness can influence the outcome.

Background

A 60-year-old applicant sought CPP disability benefits due to Type 1 diabetes with poor control, complicated by peripheral neuropathy, gastroparesis, GERD, fibromyalgia, and dizziness. She had intermittent work history but largely acted as a caregiver for her children. Her claim was denied at both the initial and reconsideration stages, leading her to appeal to the Social Security Tribunal (SST).

Key issues and tribunal findings

Establishing disability before the Minimum Qualifying Period (MQP)
- The Tribunal determined that the MQP ended on December 31, 1999, meaning she needed to prove she was severely and permanently disabled before that date.
- Medical records from multiple specialists supported her deteriorating condition, showing long-term diabetes complications and inability to work.
Withheld evidence and adverse inference
- The Respondent (Government of Canada) redacted critical medical documents, preventing the Tribunal from assessing the full impact of her condition.
- The Tribunal repeatedly requested unredacted copies, but the Respondent refused, citing privacy laws, despite legal provisions allowing disclosure.
- As a result, the Tribunal drew an adverse inference—assuming the withheld evidence would have supported the Appellant’s claim.
Final decision and outcome
- The Tribunal found that the Appellant met the criteria for a severe and prolonged disability before her MQP expired.
- Due to CPP rules, she was deemed disabled as of February 2013, with benefit payments commencing in June 2013.
- The appeal was allowed, securing her disability benefits.

Key takeaways

Comprehensive medical documentation from specialists is essential.
Procedural fairness matters—if the evidence is improperly withheld, tribunals can rule in favour of the applicant.
Legal representation can help challenge unfair denials and navigate complex appeals.
Including multiple medical conditions can strengthen your claim, illustrating the full extent of disability.

This case underscores the importance of thorough medical evidence, persistence, and legal advocacy in successfully securing disability benefits for diabetes.

3. Understand and meet program-specific criteria

Different disability programs, including CPP Disability and provincial assistance, have their own qualification requirements. Understanding and aligning your claim with these criteria can make or break your application.

For example, under CPP Disability, you must prove that your diabetes and its complications prevent you from maintaining any gainful employment. In contrast, EI Sickness Benefits require only a temporary inability to work due to medical reasons.

When applying, emphasize how diabetes affects your ability to perform essential work tasks, maintain consistent employment, or carry out daily activities without excessive fatigue or medical intervention.

4. Credibility is key

When applying for disability benefits for diabetes, your credibility isn’t just important—it’s everything. Insurance companies and government programs carefully examine every detail of your claim, and even small inconsistencies can lead to a denial.

Because diabetes can be difficult to qualify for, you need to be extra cautious. Even an innocent mistake or an exaggeration of symptoms can make you seem unreliable. The key is to stay truthful, consistent, and professional throughout the process.

What can hurt your credibility?

Contradicting medical records or past statements – If what you say today doesn’t match what’s in your medical file, it can raise doubts.
Blaming others for your situation – Taking responsibility shows honesty and maturity, while pointing fingers can make you seem unreliable.
Criticizing doctors, insurers, or caseworkers – Even if you feel wronged, focusing on the facts of your claim is more effective than venting frustrations.
Filing complaints against medical professionals – While you may have legitimate concerns, prioritizing your claim over personal disputes is essential.
Using aggressive, sarcastic, or confrontational language – Keeping a calm and professional tone strengthens your case.
Refusing to cooperate with reasonable requests for information – Transparency and responsiveness show that you have nothing to hide.
Arguing with doctors over your diagnosis – Your goal is to prove how diabetes affects your ability to work, not to challenge medical opinions.
Acting like a medical expert – Your role is to provide honest information about your symptoms, not to interpret medical findings.

What can strengthen your credibility?

Ensuring your statements align with your medical records.
Acknowledging any mistakes or gaps in your claim rather than making excuses.
Being polite, cooperative, and respectful with all parties involved.
Accepting expert medical opinions, even if you don’t fully agree.
Following treatment plans and making a good-faith effort to manage your condition.
Demonstrating a genuine effort to work, even if it becomes impossible due to your symptoms.

The stronger your credibility, the better your chances of securing the benefits you need. Stay honest, stay consistent, and focus on building the best case possible.

5. Evidence of work-related limitations

Many people with diabetes can continue working, but if your condition makes it impossible to do your job, it’s essential to clearly document why. Disability benefits providers won’t just take your word for it—they need solid evidence showing how diabetes affects your ability to work.

Start by working closely with your doctor to build a strong medical record. This may include tests like A1C levels, nerve conduction studies, or eye exams to demonstrate complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, or chronic fatigue. Be honest about how your symptoms—whether it’s sudden blood sugar crashes, extreme fatigue, or vision problems—interfere with your ability to perform your job safely and effectively.

It’s also important to track any adjustments you’ve made to keep working. Have you had to take more breaks? Modify your tasks? Work fewer hours? These small but crucial details help paint a clearer picture of your struggle.

Before applying for disability benefits, consider trying lighter duties or alternative roles within your workplace. Insurers often question claims unless you’ve shown that you’ve exhausted all reasonable options to stay employed. If your job was officially classified as medium-duty, but your employer accommodated you with lighter tasks, make sure to document that.

And if diabetes has forced you to change jobs—or leave the workforce entirely—keep a record of that, too. The more evidence you have of your work-related limitations, the stronger your claim will be.

6. Seek legal guidance

Navigating the disability claims process can be overwhelming, especially when facing denials or requests for more information. A disability lawyer can help by:

Clarifying eligibility requirements
Assisting in compiling compelling medical evidence
Strengthening your application with expert legal guidance
Handling appeals if your claim is denied

If you need assistance with your claim, our experienced legal team is here to help. Schedule your free consultation today!

Denied disability benefits for diabetes? Here’s what you can do

You’ve filled out the forms, gathered medical evidence, and submitted everything—only to receive a rejection letter denying your disability benefits. Now, you’re left wondering how you’ll manage your condition while being expected to return to work.

Getting denied can be frustrating and overwhelming, especially when you’re already struggling with the daily challenges of diabetes. But don’t lose hope—this isn’t the end of the road. You have the right to appeal the decision, whether it’s from Service Canada or your insurance provider.

If you’ve been denied, we’re here to help. Download our free guides to understand your next steps, or schedule a free consultation by filling out the form below or calling us toll-free at (888) 480-9050.

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