Federal tax measure
Disability Tax Credit: prove effects, not diagnosis alone.
The DTC is not an autism grant. A medical practitioner describes the effects of impairment, and the Canada Revenue Agency decides whether the statutory criteria are met.
Review the CRA application01
Screen the eligibility test
Focus on the duration, frequency, and functional effects described in current CRA guidance.
- Diagnosis alone is not the test
- Use concrete daily examples
02
Prepare the medical section
Choose a practitioner permitted to certify the relevant impairment and provide complete context.
- Review dates and examples
- Keep a copy before submission
03
Submit and respond
CRA may approve, deny, or request more information.
- Track the case in CRA channels
- Respond by the stated date
04
Use approval carefully
Tax effects depend on the claimant’s circumstances; DTC approval can also open eligibility for an RDSP.
- Do not promise a refund amount
- Get tax advice for reassessments or transfers