Disability Tax Credit Applications Are Now Open: What You Need to Know
- jenna624
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Jenna Fralick, BScN RN
What is the Disability Tax Credit?
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax credit offered by the Government of Canada. It’s designed to help reduce the amount of income tax that people with disabilities—or their supporting family members—may have to pay.
But here’s the great news: the application for the DTC is now open, and it’s the first step to unlocking not only this tax credit, but also other supports, such as the Canada Disability Benefit and the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP).
So, whether you're someone living with a disability or you care for someone who is, now is the time to learn how this credit could benefit you.
Why the DTC Matters
If approved, the DTC can:
✅ Lower your income taxes
✅ Make you eligible for retroactive tax refunds (up to 10 years)
✅ Open doors to other financial supports and programs
✅ Recognize the additional costs of living with a disability
It’s one of the most underused financial tools in Canada—but it shouldn’t be.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if:
You’re living with a physical or mental disability that significantly affects daily activities.
The condition is expected to last 12 months or longer.
You’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
You don’t have to be receiving other disability supports or be on a specific program. Many people don’t realize they qualify—especially if they live with chronic conditions like:
Inability to independantly manage bowel or bladder functions
Hearing or vision impairments
Mental illness
Unable to prepare your own meals or feed yourself
Mobility challenges
If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking—your doctor or nurse practitioner can help determine your eligibility, or you can review eligibility requirements here.
How Much Could You Receive?
As of 2024, the base amount for the DTC is up to $9,428 federally, plus an additional amount if the person is under 18. Each province adds its own amount—for example, Nova Scotia adds approximately $7,900.
You may also be eligible for a retroactive refund going back up to 10 years. That’s thousands of dollars back in your pocket, just for applying.
How to Apply (It’s Easier Than You Think!)
Get Form T2201 – This is the DTC Certificate, available here or through your tax advisor.
Have a Medical Practitioner Fill It Out – A doctor or nurse practitioner must certify how your disability affects your daily life.
Submit to the CRA – You can do this by mail or through your online CRA account.
Wait for a Decision – CRA will assess your application and send a letter with the result.
Tip: You don’t need a third-party company to apply. If you’re unsure, ask a trusted healthcare provider or community organization for help—you should never have to pay a big fee to apply.
Who Benefits?
The DTC benefits more than just the individual with the disability—it can also support:
Parents caring for a child with a disability
Spouses or adult children supporting a family member
Working adults who’ve had to cut back hours due to a disability
Seniors managing age-related impairments
In short: It’s meant to ease the financial burden that comes with living with a disability—and that’s something many Canadians need right now.
Final Thoughts
Too many Canadians miss out on the Disability Tax Credit simply because they don’t know it exists or assume they don’t qualify.
If you or someone you love is living with a disability, take a moment today to explore the application process. It’s free, it’s fair, and it could make a real difference in your financial well-being.
Helpful Links
➡️ Learn more and start your application here
➡️ Check out RWHC's Services - for disability support and home support services for disabilities!
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