Must-Know Tax Benefits for Autism Families – Are You Missing Out?

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*Written in collaboration with the LRCSS Family Engagement Committee

The government offers thousands in financial support for families raising a child with autism, but many parents aren’t aware of what they qualify for. Here are three major tax benefits you should know about.

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#1: The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) – Reduce Your Tax Bill

• Helps lower the amount of income tax you owe.

• Must be certified by a medical practitioner.

• Can be transferred to a parent or caregiver if the child has no taxable income.

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2: Monthly Tax-Free Cash Flow (Child Disability Benefit & Canada Disability Benefit)

• For Children (Under 18): The Child Disability Benefit provides up to $3,411 per year per child alongside the CCB.

• For Adults (Ages 18–64): The Canada Disability Benefit provides up to $204.20/month for DTC-eligible adults with low-to-moderate incomes.

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#3: The RDSP – Secure Your Child’s Financial Future

• A long-term savings plan for individuals with disabilities.

• The government matches contributions up to $3,500 per year.

• Lower-income families may receive up to $1,000 annually in Canada Disability Savings Bonds without needing to make any contributions.

• Option for a year-end top-up based on personal contributions to maximize total government grants.

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#4: The Canada Disability Savings Grant & Bond – Free Money from the Government

• Matching grants of up to 300% on RDSP contributions.

• Additional bonds for families with lower income levels.

• Lifetime limits: $70,000 in grants and $20,000 in bonds.

Speak with an accountant or financial advisor to see what benefits you may be eligible for.

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Disclaimer: Lake Ridge Community Support Services is not a financial, insurance, or tax expert. While this information is thoroughly researched and provided as a supportive guide, families should seek professional expert advice tailored to their specific financial or legal situation.

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Sources:

Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

• CRA Disability Tax Credit Overview: General information on eligibility criteria and how the credit reduces taxable income.
  
  Canada Revenue Agency – Disability Tax Credit Overview1

• CRA Form T2201 Application: Access to the application form and medical practitioner certification guidelines.
  
  Canada Revenue Agency – Form T2201 Disability Tax Credit Certificate2

Child Disability Benefit (CDB) & Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

• CDB Overview: Monthly tax-free payments provided to families caring for a child under 18 eligible for the DTC.
  
  Canada Revenue Agency – Child Disability Benefit1

• Canada Child Benefit Overview: Information on annual benefit updates and income calculations.
  
  Canada Revenue Agency – Canada Child Benefit Overview3

Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), Grants & Bonds

• Government RDSP Overview: Complete guide to opening an RDSP, matching grants (CDSG), and bonds (CDSB).
  
  Government of Canada – Registered Disability Savings Plan Overview1

General Tax Credits & Deductions

• CRA Disability Tax Credits & Deductions: Master directory of federal tax credits, deductions, and financial assistance programs for persons with disabilities.
  
  Canada Revenue Agency – Tax Credits and Deductions for Persons with Disabilities4