Explore the disability programs available for you

 The disability tax credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax credit that helps people with physical or  mental impairments, or their supporting family member, reduce the amount of income tax they  may have to pay. 

 Being eligible for the DTC can also open doors to other government programs, such as the  Registered Disability Savings Plan , the working income tax benefit, and the child disability benefit. 

 Once you are approved for the DTC, you will be reimbursed for past paid taxes for up to 10 years, as well as reducing your taxes going forward. 

 The individual must be "markedly restricted" in at least one of the following categories: speaking, hearing, walking, elimination (bowel or bladder functions), feeding, dressing, performing the mental functions of everyday life, life-sustaining therapy to support vital function and the recently introduced cumulative effects of significant restrictions.  

The Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPPD) is a monthly payment you can get if you have a mental or physical disability that prevents you from working regularly. 

To be eligible, you must be under 65, have made enough contributions to the CPP, and have a disability that is severe, prolonged, or likely to result in death1. You have to apply for this benefit and provide a medical report or attestation from a doctor.

The CPPD benefit is different from the CPP retirement pension, which you can get when you turn 65 or earlier. 

If you are getting the CPPD benefit and you have dependent children, they may also be able to get a monthly payment called the CPP Children’s benefit 

Long term disability insurance is insurance that pays monthly benefits  that can replace some of your pre-disability income, up to a maximum amount, for a specified time. to people who are unable to work due to a medical condition, injury, or disability. 

The eligibility criteria for long term disability varies depending on the policy, but most have the following requirements:

You must be a full-time employee (usually working at least 30 or 35 hours a week) at the time you become disabled.

You must have a valid insurance policy that covers you for long term disability before you stop working.

You must meet the definition of “total disability” as specified in your policy. This usually means that you are unable to perform the essential duties of your own occupation or any other occupation for which you are qualified by education, training, or experience.

You must satisfy a waiting period (also called an elimination period) before you can start receiving benefits. This is the length of time you must be disabled before your benefits begin. The waiting period can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on your policy.