There are many people in Ontario who are living with disabilities but not claiming the tax credit they deserve. Most people think that living with a disability only makes certain tasks difficult. It’s so much more than this. It’s also about the fact that disabled persons struggle to earn a reasonable wage and are often burdened by additional medical expenses. Whether it be medication or equipment for day to day life, medical treatment does not come cheap. Especially if you are not able to work. Fortunately, thanks to disability tax credits, these financial difficulties are made that much more manageable. The tax credits lessen the amount of income tax paid by families which means that this money can then be used to support the needs of the disabled person.
Am I eligible for Ontario tax disability credit?
Just like all things in life, specific criteria need to be met in order to determine whether or not you are eligible for a tax disability credit. You might be able to claim for yourself or, if a loved one is disabled, you could claim on their behalf. Whoever is making the claim needs to have paid their taxes in the past. The disabled person must have significant mental or physical impairment which affects their daily activities. Some of the most common medical conditions that allow you to qualify for a tax disability credit in Ontario include:
– ADHD
– Autism
– Bladder disorder
– Bowel disorder
– Cerebral Palsy
– Cystic Fibrosis
– Juvenile Arthritis
– Schizophrenia
These are just a few examples as there are many more conditions that make you eligible for disability tax credit, such as Life Sustaining Therapy. Life Sustaining Therapy is any kind of treatment that supports the body’s vital functions. For example, kidney dialysis, insulin monitoring/injections, and long-term feeding tube placement. Dietary plans, pacemakers, and traveling to and from therapy are not seen as Life Sustaining Therapy. If you are not sure whether or not your needs are considered Life Sustaining or not, ask a professional.
What does Cumulative Effect of Significant Restrictions mean?
This is another important term to remember when applying for your tax disability credit. It basically means that the primary disability is not of significance on its own, but you may still qualify for a tax credit. If you suffer from other conditions, related or unrelated to the primary disability, and together they impair daily functions significantly, you might be eligible for a tax credit. The most important thing to remember when it comes to the cumulative effect factor is that there are no rules set in stone. Each case is evaluated individually and your personal needs and restrictions will be carefully considered during the application process. Remember, even if you do not qualify for full benefits, you could qualify for partial benefits.
Other important advice
Regardless of the type of disability, it’s essential that it has or will be present for at least 12 consecutive months in order for you to qualify. There is no penalty for having your application denied which means that there is no risk. The worst that could happen is that your application is not approved because you don’t meet one or more of the criteria. When your application is approved, it will be valid for a set period of time. Before this time comes to an end, it is important that you apply again. Yes, this does mean that you will need to go through the process anew but, now that you know what to expect, it should be a whole lot easier. Your doctor will need to sign off on every application and they should also be prepared to be contacted regarding your disability. You should also be prepared to be contacted during the application process. You might be required to produce supporting documents before you are approved. This is not out of the ordinary and you should not be alarmed if they do contact you. It’s all part of the process.
Once you are approved, you could also be eligible for other programs such as the Canada Disability Savings Bond and the Canada Disability Savings Grant. Each of these helps keep more money in your pocket and makes life that much easier for you and your loved ones. Applying for these credits is each done separately and they each have their own list of criteria. Again, having a professional help you through the process will make it easier, faster, and far less stressful.
At Tax Benefits Canada, our expert team is always happy to answer any questions and concerns you may have. Feel free to contact us at +1 (855) 413-6971 to find out more about how to apply for your disability tax credit. Don’t let those financial pressures wear you down – let us help you today!
