For many Canadians, simply getting around and accessing everyday services can be tough. When someone in your family has a disability, those challenges often come with extra time, costs and stress, not to mention the toll on your mental health as you try to juggle it all.
That strain often shows up in bank balances, missed work and sleepless nights for caregivers. The good news? There are federal and provincial programs designed to help ease some of that burden, and services that can simplify the paperwork, connect you to the right supports and help you make the most of what’s available. You already have enough on your plate; this guide can help you find financial and practical relief to make things a little easier.
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Start with the tax and benefit building blocks
Before exploring local services or private supports, it helps to make sure your family is getting every federal credit and benefit you’re entitled to. These programs are the foundation for many other supports that can reduce costs or boost long-term savings.
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a key starting point. It’s a non-refundable credit that helps reduce the amount of income tax owed by someone with a qualifying impairment, or by a family member who supports them.
Once your dependent qualifies for the DTC, it can open doors to other programs:
- The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), which helps people approved for the DTC build long-term financial security. Families can contribute what they can, and the government may add matching grants and bonds to grow those savings faster.
- If you have a child under 18 with a qualifying disability, the Child Disability Benefit provides monthly tax-free payments to help with care costs. For the 2025–2026 benefit year, families can receive up to $3,411 per child per year, or about $284 per month.
These programs can make a meaningful difference, especially when you’re balancing care responsibilities with financial pressures.
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Caregiver credits and tax transfers that help now
If you’re supporting an adult dependent, the Canada Caregiver Credit may help lower your tax bill and improve your monthly cash flow. It’s available for people who care for a spouse, partner or another qualifying family member with a physical or mental impairment.
In some cases, you can also transfer unused DTC amounts to a supporting family member when filing taxes. This is especially helpful if the person with the disability has low or no taxable income, as it allows families to make better use of available credits.
How service-focused help cuts costs
Financial help matters, but practical support can be just as important. Reducing stress and out-of-pocket costs often starts by connecting with community and provincial programs that offer transportation, respite care and in-home support.
Every province and territory runs its own disability support programs, each with unique names and eligibility rules. Local social services offices, community health centres and non-profit organizations often coordinate subsidized transportation, caregiver respite or home care programs that can fill big gaps for families.
Here’s a simple plan to get started:
- Apply for the DTC. Book time with your primary health provider to complete form T2201. Once approved, it can unlock the RDSP, Child Disability Benefit and other supports.
- Open an RDSP if eligible. Even small contributions can trigger government grants and bonds that grow over time.
- Apply for the Child Disability Benefit so that monthly payments start as soon as possible.
- Claim the Canada Caregiver Credit at tax time and explore whether transferring unused DTC amounts could help your family this year.
You can also contact your provincial disability or social services office, or simply dial 211 to connect with local United Way and community programs. These services can help with applications, transportation or short-term financial supports, and can give caregivers the breathing room to work, rest or just catch their breath.
You don’t have to navitage this alone
Government programs and benefit amounts can change from year to year, so always double-check details through official sources such as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Remember — you don’t have to do this all at once or alone. Taking one step at a time toward applying for credits, setting up plans or reaching out for help can make a real difference in both your finances and your peace of mind.
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This article originally appeared on Money.ca under the title: Supporting families caring for loved ones with disabilities
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.