The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government program designed to reduce financial barriers to oral healthcare for eligible Canadian residents who do not have access to dental insurance. Here’s a guide on how to apply:

1. Determine Your Eligibility:

Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria:

• No Access to Dental Insurance: You do not have access to any private or employer-sponsored dental insurance. This includes plans through your own or a family member’s employer, including health and wellness accounts, or pension benefits.
• Adjusted Family Net Income: Your adjusted family net income must be less than $90,000.
• Canadian Resident for Tax Purposes: You must be a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
• Filed Tax Return: You (and your spouse or common-law partner, if applicable) must have filed your tax return for the previous year.

2. Application Phases:

Applications for the CDCP have been rolling out in phases based on age groups and other criteria. As of early 2025, applications are open for:

• Seniors aged 65 and over
• Children under 18
• Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate

Applications for all other eligible Canadian residents aged 18 to 64 are scheduled to open in stages throughout 2025. It’s crucial to check the official Government of Canada website for the specific application window relevant to your age group.

3. Gather Required Information:

You will need the following information for yourself and, if applicable, your spouse or common-law partner and any eligible children:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Date of birth
• Full name
• Home and mailing address
• Information about any dental coverage through government social programs (if applicable)
• Your Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) from the previous tax year to verify your adjusted family net income.

4. How to Apply:

There are two main ways to apply for the CDCP:

• Online: The primary and recommended method is to apply through the official Government of Canada website (Canada.ca/dental). You may need to create or sign in to your My Service Canada Account (MSCA). The online portal will guide you through the application process.
• By Phone: If you are unable to apply online, you can apply by phone by contacting Service Canada. An automated application service is available, and you can also speak to an agent for assistance. The phone number can be found on the official CDCP website.

5. After You Apply:

• Confirmation: You should receive confirmation that your application has been received.
• Welcome Package: If your application is approved, Sun Life, the administrator of the CDCP, will send you a welcome package. This package will include important information such as your coverage start date, your CDCP member card, and details about the plan.

Important Considerations:

• Applying for Multiple Household Members: If multiple people in your household are eligible, you should submit one application for all of them to avoid delays.
• Assistance with Application: If you need help applying, you can ask a trusted person to assist you with the online or phone application. For those who have legal representatives (delegates), they can also apply on your behalf, though they will need to provide proof of their authority.
• Keep Information Updated: Ensure your contact information with Service Canada and the CRA is up to date.
• Check Official Sources: For the most current and detailed information, including specific application dates for your group, eligibility requirements, and covered services, always refer to the official Government of Canada website (Canada.ca/dental) or contact Service Canada directly.