Home › Benefits glossary Benefits glossary
Canadian benefits glossary Government benefits, tax, disability and drug-coverage terms explained in plain language.
Definitions are educational. Official program rules still apply.
Topics and A–Z Income-tested benefits Income-tested benefits
Clawback A reduction in a benefit as your income rises above a threshold. You keep the benefit, but receive less.
Clawbacks explain why benefits shrink as income grows, they are not always sudden cut-offs.
Income-tested benefits
Income-tested A benefit or credit whose amount or eligibility depends on how much income you report.
Reporting accurate income on your tax return is often how you apply for these benefits.
Income-tested benefits
Means-tested A program that considers your financial resources, usually income and sometimes assets, before paying benefits.
You may qualify for health-related programs but not income support, or vice versa.
Related tools and guides Use these MyEligible tools to explore programs after you understand a term.
Sources and methodology Definitions explain common government and program language in plain words. They are starting points for understanding, not legal advice or official eligibility decisions. Confirm important details with the official program, CRA, Service Canada, or a qualified professional.
Glossary reviewed September 13, 2026
Benefits navigator quiz · MyEligible sources index