Living with a disability in Canada can bring its own challenges, but thankfully, financial support is available. The CRA’s Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) aim to ease the burden. If you’re wondering how to get CRA DTC & Canada Disability Benefit in 2025, this guide walks you through everything you need to know—step by step.
Getting both benefits involves two stages. First, you need to get approved for the DTC. Once that’s done, you’re eligible to apply for the monthly Canada Disability Benefit. Introduced in 2025, the CDB provides direct financial help to eligible Canadians. Whether you’re applying for yourself or someone else, the process is easier than you might think.
Let’s break it all down.
Overview
Here’s a quick look at what’s involved in getting both the DTC and CDB in 2025:
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 2025 |
| Country | Canada |
| Benefit Programs | Disability Tax Credit (DTC), Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) |
| Managed By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
| Eligibility | Canadians with certified disabilities |
| Payment Type | Monthly (CDB), Tax Reduction (DTC) |
| How to Apply | Online, phone, mail, or Service Canada office |
| CRA Website | www.canada.ca |
Process
Let’s get into the actual steps of applying. There are two separate but related applications: one for the DTC and another for the CDB. The DTC approval is required before applying for the CDB.
Certification
Before you can apply for the Disability Tax Credit, a medical professional has to certify your condition. The type of professional depends on the nature of the disability:
| Condition | Certified By |
|---|---|
| Vision loss | Optometrist |
| Hearing issues | Audiologist |
| Walking, feeding, dressing | Occupational Therapist |
| Walking (only) | Physiotherapist |
| Mental impairments | Psychologist |
| Speech issues | Speech-Language Pathologist |
| General conditions | Medical Doctor, Nurse Practitioner |
This certification is a must. Without it, you can’t move forward.
Digital
Applying online is the fastest method. Here’s how:
Step 1
- Log into your CRA My Account
- Click on “Benefits and credits”
- Select “Apply for DTC”
- Or call CRA at 1-800-959-8281 or use the automated service at 1-800-463-4421
- You’ll provide your personal details and consent for CRA to speak with your doctor
A reference number will be generated.
Step 2
Give this reference number to your doctor or specialist.
Step 3
They’ll fill out their section online and submit it directly to CRA. This includes detailed information about your disability.
Paper
Prefer old-school paperwork? No problem.
Step 1
Download and complete the T2201 form. Sign Section 4.
Step 2
They fill out the rest and sign the certification section on the last page.
Step 3
Either you or your doctor can submit it to CRA by mail.
Benefit
Once your DTC is approved, you’re now eligible to apply for the Canada Disability Benefit. Here’s how that works.
If You Got a Letter from Service Canada (and applying for yourself):
You’ll need:
- Unique application code
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Proof of status in Canada
- Direct deposit info
If You Didn’t Get a Letter:
You’ll also need:
- Mailing address
- Net income from your 2024 tax return
If You’re Applying for Someone Else (and received a letter):
Provide:
- Their SIN
- Unique code
- Your proof of legal authority
- Their government-issued ID
- Direct deposit info
If You Didn’t Receive a Letter (applying for another person):
You’ll also need:
- Their 2024 net income
Applications can be submitted in 4 ways:
- Online through My Service Canada Account
- By phone
- Using a printed form
- In-person at a Service Canada location
Tips
- Get your DTC approved first. Without it, you can’t apply for CDB.
- Medical professionals must complete Part B – not optional.
- Apply online for quicker processing.
- Keep your SIN, income info, and banking details ready.
The CRA and Service Canada have streamlined this process more than ever. Whether you’re applying for yourself or someone else, don’t wait. These benefits are there to help make life easier.
Here’s a quick recap of the two-step process:
| Step | Task | Responsible Person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apply for DTC (Form T2201) | Applicant & Medical Professional |
| 2 | Apply for CDB (After DTC Approval) | Applicant or Representative |
If you or someone in your family is living with a disability, getting access to these benefits can be life-changing. It’s not just about saving on taxes or getting monthly payments—it’s about getting the support you deserve.
FAQs
What is the CRA DTC?
The Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit for eligible Canadians.
Do I need DTC for CDB?
Yes, DTC approval is required before applying for the Canada Disability Benefit.
Who certifies my disability?
A relevant medical professional must certify your medical condition.
Can I apply for someone else?
Yes, with legal authority and supporting documents, you can apply on their behalf.
How do I apply for DTC online?
Sign in to CRA My Account and go to ‘Apply for DTC’ under Benefits.















