Direct answer
Ontario families caring for an autistic child or adult may access: the federal Canada Caregiver Credit (CCC) worth up to $2,499 annually; the Ontario Caregiver Tax Credit if the dependent has infirmity; the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) with up to $90,000 in federal grants and bonds; and ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program) if the individual meets income and disability criteria.
Start with the short answer, then reveal deeper context where helpful.
The Canada Caregiver Credit (CCC) is a non-refundable federal tax credit for Canadians who support a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent with a physical or mental infirmity. Autism qualifies. The 2024 maximum is $2,499 for an eligible dependent. The credit is calculated on Schedule 5 of the T1 return. It is reduced dollar-for-dollar once the dependent's net income exceeds a threshold (approximately $17,670 in 2024).
Ontario's ODSP provides income and disability-related benefits to adults (18+) with substantial physical or mental disabilities. For families with an autistic adult dependent, ODSP may cover drug costs, dental, and vision care in addition to income support. Eligibility is income and asset-tested. ODSP can be combined with federal programs like the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), which launched in 2025.
The Canada Caregiver Credit (CCC) is a non-refundable federal tax credit for Canadians who support a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent with a physical or mental infirmity. Autism qualifies. The 2024 maximum is $2,499 for an eligible dependent. The credit is calculated on Schedule 5 of the T1 return. It is reduced dollar-for-dollar once the dependent's net income exceeds a threshold (approximately $17,670 in 2024).
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is the most powerful long-term savings tool for autistic Canadians. It requires an active Disability Tax Credit (DTC) certificate. The federal government matches contributions through the Canada Disability Savings Grant (up to $3,500/year) and provides the Canada Disability Savings Bond (up to $1,000/year) for lower-income families even without contributions. Lifetime maximum of $70,000 in grants and $20,000 in bonds.
Ontario's ODSP provides income and disability-related benefits to adults (18+) with substantial physical or mental disabilities. For families with an autistic adult dependent, ODSP may cover drug costs, dental, and vision care in addition to income support. Eligibility is income and asset-tested. ODSP can be combined with federal programs like the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), which launched in 2025.
The Ontario Caregiver Tax Credit is available to caregivers of adult relatives who live with them and require assistance. Caregivers of autistic children may also qualify for Special Services at Home (SSAH) — a provincial program providing up to $25,200/year for respite and community participation services. Applications for SSAH go through local Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) offices.
CRA
Canada Revenue Agency, Canada Caregiver Credit (Line 30450) — 2024
ESDC
Employment and Social Development Canada, Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) — 2024
Ontario
Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services — Special Services at Home Program (2024)
Compare RDSP and RESP savings vehicles for families of autistic children. Learn about government matching grants, contribution limits, and withdrawal rules.
Autism qualifies for the federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Learn how to apply using CRA Form T2201, who must certify it, and how much families can receive.
SSAH provides $3,000-$5,500/year for respite and skills development for children with disabilities in Ontario. Learn eligibility, amounts, and how to apply.
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate