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 before age 60 (55 for correctional employees and certain ambulance paramedics), you may be eligible for a disability benefit from BC’s Public Service Pension Plan. This pays you a monthly benefit for your lifetime and replaces any termination benefits or retirement pension you would normally receive as a plan member.

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, contact us.

After we receive your letter:

• We will provide you an estimate of the monthly disability benefit you may be entitled to receive and summarize next steps
• You must send us a medical report from your doctor describing the nature of your disability
• The plan will also appoint a doctor who will meet with you and prepare a second medical report
• Both doctors must confirm that you are totally and permanently disabled
• We will review all your information and let you know if your application for a disability benefit has been approved

If we approve your application, we will pay your disability benefit based on the pension option you choose.

There is no bridge benefit.

You may also be eligible for a separate disability benefit from 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.