How to Open an RDSP for an Autistic Child in Ontario

To open an RDSP for an autistic child in Ontario, the child must (1) be approved for the federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC) — autism is generally eligible if it markedly restricts mental functions, daily living activities, or requires life-sustaining therapy; (2) be under 60 years old; (3) be a Canadian resident; (4) have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN). The parent or legal guardian opens the plan as the "Holder" until the beneficiary reaches age of majority.

The DTC is the gateway: without it, no RDSP, no matching grants, no bond. Application is via CRA Form T2201 (Disability Tax Credit Certificate), completed jointly with a qualified medical practitioner. Approval can take 2-6 months. Once approved, you can backdate up to 10 years of contribution-matching potential.

The Canada Disability Savings Grant matches family contributions: dollar-for-dollar on the first $500/year if family income is under approximately $112,000, plus an additional 200% match up to $1,000/year. Maximum grant is $3,500/year. Higher-income families get a 100% match on the first $1,000/year (max $1,000/year grant).

The Canada Disability Savings Bond is income-tested and does NOT require any family contribution. Families earning under approximately $36,000/year receive up to $1,000/year automatically. This phases out by approximately $56,000 family income. The bond is the most important benefit for lower-income autistic families.

Lifetime caps: $70,000 in grants, $20,000 in bonds. Total government contribution: $90,000 per beneficiary over their lifetime.

Step 1: Apply for the Disability Tax Credit if not already approved (CRA Form T2201). Step 2: Choose an RDSP-eligible financial institution — most major Canadian banks, credit unions, and online brokers offer RDSPs (BMO, RBC, TD, Scotiabank, CIBC, Tangerine, Questrade, others). Step 3: Open the RDSP, naming the autistic child as beneficiary. The Holder is typically a parent for minors. Step 4: Make a first contribution (any amount; even $25 unlocks grant). Step 5: Apply for matching grant and bond using the financial institution's forms.

Important: contributions made before December 31 each year count toward that calendar year's grant/bond. There is no minimum contribution to unlock the bond (it is automatic if income criteria are met).

RDSPs do NOT count as assets for Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) eligibility. Money in an RDSP does not reduce ODSP benefits. Withdrawals from an RDSP also do not count as income for ODSP purposes. This makes the RDSP one of the most powerful financial planning tools for autistic adults receiving or expected to receive ODSP.