Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD)

PDD is a Government of Alberta program that funds supports and services for adults with a developmental disability. It helps you live as independently as possible — at home, in your community and at work — and gives family caregivers a break. Supports are chosen with a PDD coordinator and delivered by service providers like Transitions.

Who can apply

• You are 16 or older to apply, with services starting at 18.
• You live and will receive services in Alberta, and are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• You have a developmental disability that began before age 18 — an IQ of about 70 or lower, confirmed by a registered psychologist.
• You have significant limitations in everyday adaptive skills (things like self-care, communication, decision-making and safety).

What PDD can help with

• Home living supports — help to live independently and manage daily activities.
• Community access supports — taking part in activities to learn, relax and connect.
• Employment supports — learning skills and finding and keeping a job.
• Respite — a temporary break for caregivers you live with.
• Short-term support or training, and specialized supports (mental health, behaviour, addictions, justice involvement).

An important distinction

• PDD funds disability-related supports and services — it is not a monthly income program.
• For income, many adults also qualify for AISH (see our AISH guide).

How to apply

1. Contact PDD through Alberta Supports (1-877-644-9992) to start.
2. Take part in an eligibility assessment, including a psychological assessment.
3. If eligible, work with a PDD coordinator on a support plan.
4. Choose your service providers — Transitions delivers PDD-funded Adult Services.

Good to know
Eligibility and services are set by the Government of Alberta and can change — confirm the latest at Alberta.ca/pdd. Our team is glad to help you understand the process.