For many Canadians with disabilities and their families, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and Registered Disabilities Savings Plan (RDSP) may seem complicated and out of reach. Understanding how these programs work together can make a meaningful difference for planning for the future.
Throughout RDSP Awareness Month in 2026, we’ll be exploring the theme: there’s more to the DTC and RDSP than you think.
The Disability Tax Credit is more than just a tax credit; it can open doors to other federal programs and benefits, including access to the RDSP. The RDSP is also more than just a savings account; it’s a long-term financial planning tool designed to help people with disabilities build financial security, with government grants and bonds adding to personal contributions.
There are also important details that many people just don’t know: eligibility rules which are changing in 2027 to make access easier, contribution and withdrawal strategies, government incentives, beneficiary and holder considerations, deadlines, and special provisions for people whose circumstances may change (for example, those with shortened life expectancies).
This month, we seek to make these programs easier to understand and help British Columbians ask better questions. Whether you are a person with a disability, a parent or caregiver, a family member, a financial professional, service provider, healthcare provider, or someone supporting a friend or loved one, RDSP Awareness Month 2026 is an opportunity to look beyond the basics and discover what you may have been missing.
Follow our social media and check our blog throughout the month to learn more.
If you have restrictions that severely impact your daily life, you may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), a non-refundable tax credit that helps to reduce taxes that you or your caregiver owes. The DTC also acts as a gateway to other benefits or financial programs, like the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and Canada Disability Benefit (CDB).
Once you submit your application, the CRA will determine whether you’re eligible and and how long your eligibility will last. Some people are indefinitely approved for the DTC; this means you will never have to apply again, unless the CRA asks you to! However, we find that it’s more common for the CRA to approve applicants for a certain number of years, sometimes even when their disability is permanent.
Make sure you know if/when your DTC expires. If your DTC expires, you will need to fill out a new application form. We can help!
The Access RDSP partnership between DABC, Plan Institute and BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS) has had years of experience providing free navigational supports through income tax filing, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and other financial planning matters. For RDSP Awareness Month, our team of experts are hosting two “Ask an Expert” sessions, where you can learn and ask any question about the DTC, RDSP, taxes and other financial topics.
Join us again this year:
Ask an Expert Week 1: Disability Tax Credit and Tax Topics
When: Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025, at 12 PM Pacific Time.
