Direct answer
An RDSP is a federal long-term savings plan that provides up to $90,000 in lifetime government contributions: up to $70,000 in Canada Disability Savings Grants (CDSG) matching personal contributions, and up to $20,000 in income-tested Canada Disability Savings Bonds (CDSB) requiring no personal contribution. Beneficiaries must be Canadian residents under 60 with a SIN and eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
The Canada Disability Savings Grant (CDSG) matches personal contributions up to $3,500/year depending on family income. Lower-income families receive higher matching rates (up to 300%).
The Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB) provides up to $1,000/year for low-income families with no personal contribution required.
Combined lifetime maximum is $90,000 in government contributions. Funds grow tax-deferred and are taxed when withdrawn — typically at low rates because beneficiaries usually have low income.
To open an RDSP, the beneficiary must be a Canadian resident, have a valid Social Insurance Number, be under 60 years of age, and be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. Most autistic individuals qualify for the DTC.
The DTC application requires a medical practitioner to complete Form T2201 and submit it to the Canada Revenue Agency. Processing takes 6–12 weeks. Once approved, the beneficiary can open an RDSP through any participating financial institution (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC, Mackenzie, and others).
A parent, legal guardian, or qualifying family member can be the plan holder for a child or adult who cannot manage the plan themselves.
The Assistance Holdback Amount (AHA): if you withdraw within 10 years of receiving a government grant or bond, you must repay $3 for every $1 withdrawn in grants and bonds received in the previous 10 years.
After the 10-year window, withdrawals have no clawback. Lifetime Disability Assistance Payments (LDAPs) must begin by age 60.
Strategy: starting an RDSP early — even in childhood — maximizes the value of compounding and government contributions.
As of 2008, RDSP assets and income from an RDSP do not affect eligibility for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). This makes the RDSP one of the few savings vehicles that does not trigger ODSP asset clawbacks.
For autistic adults receiving ODSP, an RDSP can provide a meaningful future income supplement without reducing current ODSP benefits.
CRA
Canada Revenue Agency — RDSP Program guidelines and Form T2201 (Disability Tax Credit)
ESDC
Employment and Social Development Canada — RDSP grant and bond contribution rules
Autism qualifies for the federal Disability Tax Credit. Learn how to apply using CRA Form T2201, who must certify it, and how much families can receive.
ODSP provides ~$1,308/month income support plus dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage for adults 18+ with disabilities in Ontario. Autism may qualify if it substantially restricts daily activities.
Compare RDSP and RESP savings vehicles for families of autistic children. Learn about government matching grants, contribution limits, and withdrawal rules.
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.
What is the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) for autism?
The DTC (Form T2201) is a federal tax credit for severe and prolonged impairment. Approval reduces income tax ($10,138 disability amount, 2025 CRA rate) and unlocks other benefits like the Child Disability Benefit (up to $3,411/year, 2025–26) and the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP).
Source: CRA Disability Tax Credit
How does the RDSP work for autism?
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) allows long-term saving with generous government matching (up to 300% grants). Low-income families can receive up to $1,000/year in bonds without contributing. Withdrawals effectively begin at age 60, making it a powerful retirement security tool.
Source: Government of Canada RDSP
What disability programs exist in Ontario besides OAP?
Key programs include: SSAH (respite for kids), ACSD (Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities - monthly income supplement), ADP (Assistive Devices Program), and Northern Health Travel Grants. Each has separate applications and criteria.
Source: MCCSS Service Directory
Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate