Alberta Income Support 2025: Guide to Alberta Social Assistance
Alberta Income Support is the provincial social assistance program for Albertans who are in financial need. If you are struggling to cover basic living expenses in Alberta, Income Support can provide temporary financial help while you work toward greater financial stability.
Quick facts: Alberta Income Support provides financial assistance based on household size and living situation. The program is administered by Alberta Seniors, Community and Social Services. Applications are made online or in person at an Alberta Supports Centre.
What Is Alberta Income Support?
Alberta Income Support provides monthly financial assistance to help cover basic necessities including food, clothing, personal items, and shelter. The program is divided into two main categories:
Expected to Work (ETW) — for people who can look for and accept work
Not Expected to Work (NETW) — for people with barriers to employment, such as a disability, caregiving responsibilities, or other circumstances
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Alberta Income Support, you must:
Be an Alberta resident
Be 18 years of age or older (or 16-17 with dependents in some circumstances)
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have qualifying immigration status
Be in financial need
Not have income or assets that exceed program limits
Asset Limits
Single person: up to $5,000 in liquid assets
Family: up to $100 in liquid assets
Your primary home and one vehicle may be exempt
Alberta Income Support Monthly Rates (2025)
Monthly amounts depend on your situation and household composition. Approximate amounts include:
Single adult (ETW, renting): approximately $876–$1,050/month
Single adult with one child: approximately $1,300–$1,500/month
Couple with no children: approximately $1,400–$1,700/month
NETW (additional support): higher rates apply for those not expected to work
Amounts include core benefit, accommodation, and applicable supplements. Actual amounts vary by situation.
How to Apply
Online: Apply at myalberta.ca or through the Alberta Supports online application
In person: Visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you
By phone: Call 1-866-644-5135 (toll-free)
You will be asked about your income, assets, housing costs, and household members. Bring or upload identification, proof of residency, bank statements, and income documents.
Core Benefit Components
Alberta Income Support consists of several components:
Core benefit: covers food, clothing, personal items
Accommodation benefit: helps cover rent and housing costs
Utilities supplement: additional help with heating and utilities
Transportation allowance: for employment-related travel
Health Benefits
Income Support recipients in Alberta are eligible for:
Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) coverage
Prescription drug coverage through Alberta Blue Cross
Dental coverage (basic services)
Optical coverage (eye exams and glasses)
Diabetic supplies and other medical equipment
Employment Expectations
If you are in the Expected to Work category, you will be required to:
Actively look for work and document your job search
Accept suitable employment when offered
Participate in employment programs if referred
If you have health issues, caregiving responsibilities, or other significant barriers to employment, you may qualify for the Not Expected to Work category, which has no employment requirements.
Working While on Income Support
You can earn income while receiving Income Support. Alberta has an earnings exemption:
You can keep the first $230/month in earned income with no reduction to your benefits
Beyond that, benefits are reduced based on a formula
Working always leaves you better off financially
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