REGINA — Monthly core income assistance benefits will increase starting in May, as announced in the Government of Saskatchewan’s 2026-27 provincial budget.
“This year's budget increases help to protect vulnerable people across our province,” Terry Jenson, social services minister, said. “By raising income supports, we are helping make the costs of daily life more affordable for individuals and families with low income.”
Beginning May 1, an $11.7-million investment will raise core income assistance benefits by two per cent, providing households with up to $40 more per month. Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) clients will receive higher monthly benefits for the fifth consecutive year, and this is the fourth year in a row that monthly benefits will increase for Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID) clients.
Income assistance clients will also benefit from additional rate increases taking effect May 1:
SAID residential support benefits for families caring for loved ones at home will increase by 30 per cent over three years (10 per cent annually). This includes a $2-million investment in 2026-27, increasing benefits by up to $130 per month for about 1,800 clients.
The monthly incidental income exemption in SIS and SAID will double from $100 to $200 per household, allowing clients more flexibility to access additional resources or receive monetary gifts without affecting their benefits.
The government is also introducing a new benefit in May 2026 within the SIS program to help prevent evictions and support at-risk clients in remaining housed. A $400,000 investment will provide a one-time, $1,000 per household utility arrears recoverable benefit.
An additional $250,000 in 2026-27 will expand trusteeship and money management supports by 150 spaces, helping more than 1,450 clients manage their benefits. Since 2021, direct payment of rent and utilities has also been available for SIS clients who require it.
Since 2007, the province has increased its investment in income assistance programs by nearly $378.7 million, or 123.1 per cent.
