The Alberta Child Health Benefit provides health benefits, including dental coverage, for children up to 18 in low-income households. Children who are 18 or 19 years old, live at home and are attending high school also qualify.
Under this program, children of qualifying families can receive basic and preventative dental services, including:
- Fillings
- X-rays
- Dental examinations
- Teeth cleaning
The dental care provider can provide further information on which services are covered under this benefit.
To be eligible for the Alberta Child Health Benefit, the child and their family members must:
- Live in Alberta
- Be a Canadian citizen or have permanent resident status in Canada
- Meet the income guidelines
- Not receive health benefits from other government programs
To apply, a family must first complete the application form and sign and date the sections marked ‘My Declaration’ and ‘Consent for Canada Revenue Agency’. This form must then be submitted by mail, email, or fax to the Alberta Health Benefits Contact Centre.
Once approved, the family will receive a health benefits card in the mail for each of their children. This card must be presented to the child’s dental care provider prior to service.
Key Alberta Child Health Benefit Dental Coverage Details
There is no need to reapply for this benefit each year. Eligibility for coverage under the Alberta Child Health Benefit is automatically reassessed annually in September.
Families with children who are 18 or 19 must complete a declaration form. This declaration form is to confirm that the child is still living at home and attending high school (up to grade 12). Without this declaration, children aged 18 or 19 will not be eligible for the Alberta Child Health Benefit.
FAQs
How can I check if my family meets the income guidelines for the Alberta Child Health Benefit?
You can calculate your income by looking at your last income tax return.
- Start with your Basic Income (Line 23600)
- Add any child support received (Line 15600)
- Subtract the amount you were taxedn (Line 12800)
The amount left is your income. You can then compare your income to the table.
What is the process for renewing or updating my child's eligibility for the Alberta Child Health Benefit if my family’s situation changes?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will automatically reassess eligibility based on the information provided on your annual tax return. If your household’s status changes, your eligibility for the benefit may change. These changes should be reflected on your tax return each year.
References
*The content provided in this article, including text, graphics, and referenced material, is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your dentist or another qualified oral health professional for questions regarding your dental condition. Never disregard professional dental advice or delay seeking it based on information from this article. If you believe you have a dental emergency, contact your dentist, or seek immediate assistance from an oral healthcare professional.
