The Alberta PDD Program

Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) is an Alberta government funding program, helping adults with developmental disabilities live an independent life in their community. In this article, we share how to apply for PDD, eligibility, and much more.

Published November 29, 2023

What is PDD?

PDD stands for Persons with Developmental Disabilities, a program designed to assist individuals facing lifelong challenges in areas such as learning, communication, and independent living. This initiative plays a vital role in fostering inclusivity and offering tailored support.

Understanding Developmental Disabilities

Developmental disabilities encompass a broad spectrum of conditions affecting cognitive, physical, and emotional aspects of an individual’s life. From autism to Down syndrome, PDD recognizes and addresses the unique needs of each person, ensuring they can lead fulfilling lives.

PDD Elegibility

To be eligible for the PDD program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be 16 years + to apply and/or 18 when PDD services begin
Live in Alberta and receive PDD services in Alberta
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

Documents and Evaluation

Typically conducted by a registered psychologist, the assessments required by PDD may take the form of a Psychological Assessment Report, Psycho-Educational Assessment, or Neuropsychological Assessment. These evaluations focus on examining aspects such as thinking, learning, reasoning, and behaviour. The outcomes of these assessments aid PDD in determining whether an individual has an intelligence quotient (IQ) of 70 or lower. You will need to provide the following documentation as part of your application listed below.

Any documentation to show age and citizenship such as:
Birth certificate or record of birth, Permanent resident or citizenship card, Record of landing, or a Passport.
An assessment report confirming developmental disability, or a letter or documentation with information about your developmental disability from your school or a doctor or specialist.
Documentation for other programs you are involved in, such as:
Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD), Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), and Alberta Aids to Daily Living.

PDD Application

To apply to PDD, you can apply online through the myAlbertSupports.ca portal. This involves creating a secure account if you don’t already have one, selecting the Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) application, and completing it online. For assistance with the application process, reach out to Alberta Supports.

Once finished, you can either submit it online or print a copy and send it via:

Mail to the Disability Application Processing: Park Plaza, 6th Floor, 10611 98 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5K 2P7
Fax: 780-422-4464
Delivery: Nearest Disability Services office in your area

Conclusion

Once you have successfully applied to and have been approved for PDD, you can explore your support options. PDD will usually refer you to a support service provider in your area. That’s where we come in! You can learn more about what CPLF offers on our Support Services page right here on our website.