Applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

Requirements for the CDCP

1. Income Threshold

Full coverage: Families with an adjusted family net income below $70,000.

Partial coverage: Families with an income between $70,000 and $79,999, requiring a 40% co-payment.

Limited coverage: Families with an income between $80,000 and $89,999, requiring a 60% co-payment.

2. Lack of private insurance

Applicants must not have access to private dental insurance.

3. Age and residency

Seniors (65 and above): Eligible to apply starting December 2023.

Children (under 18): Eligible to apply starting June 2024.

Adults with disabilities: Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate can apply starting June 2024.

General population: All other eligible Canadians can apply online in 2025.

Residency: Must be a resident of Ontario.

4. Documentation

Proof of income: Tax returns, pay stubs, or government assistance documentation.

Proof of residency: Utility bills, lease agreements, or government-issued ID.

Insurance status: Documentation or attestation confirming the lack of private dental insurance.

Process for applying to the CDCP

The process of applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in Ontario is designed to be thorough yet accessible, ensuring eligible residents can receive the dental care they need. It involves several steps designed to verify eligibility and ensure the process is as streamlined as possible. By understanding each step of the process, preparing the necessary documentation, and following the application guidelines carefully, applicants can improve their chances of a successful application.
Below is an expanded explanation of each step involved in the application process.

1. Initial assessment

Determine eligibility: Before starting the application process, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria. This involves checking:

Income level: Confirm your adjusted family net income falls within the eligible range.

Insurance status: Ensure you do not have access to private dental insurance.

Age and residency: Verify that you meet the age and residency requirements specific to your category (seniors, children, adults with disabilities, or general population).

Gather required documents: Collect all necessary documentation to support your application. This includes:

• Proof of income: Recent tax returns, pay stubs, or documents showing government assistance.

• Proof of residency: Utility bills, lease agreements, or a government-issued ID indicating your address in Ontario.

• Proof of insurance status: Statements or attestations confirming that you do not have private dental insurance.

2. The online application

Access the portal: Visit the official CDCP application portal. The government’s official website will have the specific link and detailed instructions on accessing the portal.

Create an account: If required, create an account using your personal information, such as your name, address, and email. This account will allow you to save your progress and check the status of your application.

Complete the application form: Fill in the online form with accurate information. This includes:• Personal information: Name, address, date of birth, and contact details.

• Household information: Details about your household members and their income.

• Insurance information: Confirmation that you do not have private dental insurance.

Upload documents: Upload digital copies of the required documents. Ensure that these documents are clear and legible. Accepted formats typically include PDF, JPG, and PNG.

Review and submit: Carefully review all the entered information and uploaded documents to ensure there are no errors or omissions. Once confirmed, apply.

3. Verification

Automated review: Upon submission, the application undergoes an automated review process to check for completeness and initial eligibility.

Manual review: If the automated system flags any issues, a CDCP representative will conduct a manual review. This step may involve cross-referencing the information provided with government databases.

Request for additional information: If needed, you may be contacted for additional information or clarification. Respond promptly to any such requests to avoid delays in processing.

4. Approval and enrollment

Receive notification: If your application is approved, you will receive an official notification via email or through your account on the application portal.

Welcome package: Sun Life, the administrator of the CDCP, will send you an enrollment package.

This package typically includes:

• Member Card: Your CDCP member card, which you will need to present when accessing dental services.

• Co-payment Details: Information about any co-payments required based on your income level.

• Coverage Start Date: The date from which your coverage under the CDCP begins.

5. Using Your Benefits

Schedule dental appointments: Once enrolled, you can start scheduling dental appointments with participating dental providers. Present your CDCP member card at the time of your visit.

Preauthorization for certain services: Preauthorization may be required for more complex dental procedures. This involves your dentist submitting a request to the CDCP for approval before the treatment is provided.

Monitor Your coverage: Track your dental treatments and any associated costs. Ensure you understand the extent of your coverage and any co-payments you may need.
For more detailed information and assistance, please contact our office.

Tips for a successful CDCP application

1. Prepare in advance: Gather all necessary documents before starting the application to avoid delays.

2. Provide accurate information: Ensure all information provided is accurate and matches the documents submitted.

3. Follow instructions: Carefully follow the application instructions to avoid common errors that could delay processing.

4. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with any changes or updates to the CDCP by visiting the official government website or contacting the CDCP helpline.

5. Seek assistance if needed: If you have questions or need help with your application, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from the CDCP support team or your healthcare provider.

6. Timely application: Submit your application as soon as you are eligible to ensure timely access to dental care benefits.

7. Review before submission:

Double-check all details and documents before applying to ensure completeness and accuracy.

We can help you apply

Applying for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in Ontario is a structured process designed to ensure eligible residents receive the dental care they need. Our team has helped hundreds of patients apply for and receive dental care coverage through the CDCP. We can help guide you through the application process by ensuring you understand the eligibility criteria, preparing the necessary documentation, and following the application steps carefully.
We are here to help you apply successfully and ensure you get the most out of your CDCP coverage.