Disability Tax Credit (DTC): Accessing Benefits

The DTC is a non-refundable tax credit that helps persons with disabilities or their supporting persons reduce the amount of income tax they may have to pay.

Why is it Important?

Being approved for the DTC is the "key" to unlocking other programs:

1. Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP): Incredible gov't matching grants.
2. Canada Workers Benefit disability supplement.
3. Child Disability Benefit.

Eligibility

You must have a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions. "Prolonged" means it has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months. "Severe" typically means you are restricted at least 90% of the time.

How to Apply

1. Download Form T2201, Disability Tax Credit Certificate.
2. Fill out Part A yourself.
3. Take the form to a medical practitioner (Doctor, Nurse Practitioner, Optometrist, Audiologist, etc.) to complete Part B.
4. Submit via CRA My Account.

If approved, the CRA will tell you for which years you are valid. You can often ask for a readjustment of prior years' tax returns to claim the credit retroactively (up to 10 years).