Low-income residents and people with disabilities in Saskatchewan started seeing a boost in their monthly benefits starting May 1 as the provincial government rolls out $11.7 million in new funding.
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The investment, originally announced in the 2026-27 Provincial Budget, provides a two per cent increase to core benefits for several assistance programs. Depending on the household, the change will result in up to $40 more per month for those receiving Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) or Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID).
Social services minister Terry Jenson said the increases are a direct response to the rising cost of living.
“By raising income supports, we are helping make the costs of daily life more affordable for individuals and families with low income,” Jenson said in a statement.
The adjustment marks the fifth consecutive year of increases for SIS clients and the fourth for those on SAID.
In addition to the core rate hike, the province is introducing a new $1,000 one-time “utility arrears recoverable benefit” through the SIS program. The $400,000 initiative is designed to prevent evictions by helping at-risk clients clear utility debts.
Other changes coming into effect May 1 include:
- Residential support: Families caring for loved ones at home through SAID will see a 10 per cent increase this year, the first of a planned 30 per cent hike over three years.
- Income exemptions: The monthly incidental income exemption for SIS and SAID households will double from $100 to $200, allowing clients to accept small gifts or resources without a reduction in benefits.
- Money management: A $250,000 investment will add 150 spaces to trusteeship and money management programs to help clients navigate their finances.
The government noted that since 2007, provincial investment in income assistance has grown by nearly $379 million, an increase of 123 per cent.
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