As a parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you may qualify for financial support. This support can help cover the extraordinary costs associated with being a parent of a child with special needs. Financial support can come from government and private programs. The amount of money you receive will depend on your child’s needs and your family’s financial situation. The list that follows describes some, but not all, of the financial benefits available to children with special needs and their families. Financial support also includes tax benefits for families raising a child with special needs.
As a parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you may qualify for financial support. This support can help cover the extraordinary costs associated with being a parent of a child with special needs. Financial support can come from government and private programs. The amount of money you receive will depend on your child’s needs and your family’s financial situation. The list that follows describes some, but not all, of the financial benefits available to children with special needs and their families. Financial support also includes tax benefits for families raising a child with special needs.
When you complete an application, always mail the original and keep a copy for yourself. Pay attention to renewal dates for programs that must be re-applied for every year. If you miss a renewal date or hand an application in late, it may result in you losing your benefits. If you have any questions when completing an application, call the appropriate agency for information. Developing a relationship with a worker from each agency can be helpful when specific questions arise about your application or available services. Also remember that, in Ontario, respiteservices.com offers help to complete applications. See more detailed information below about this agency.
The list that follows describes some of the financial benefits you may be able to apply for from government or charitable organizations.
Government programs
Special Services at Home Program (SSAH)
This is a Ministry of Community and Social Services program that financially assists families of children with a physical disability and/or developmental disability. To be eligible, you must be a resident of Ontario. Your family’s income does not affect whether or not you qualify. If approved, the funds are given directly to your family to hire a support worker to help your child in the area of personal development and growth. Funds can also be used to help you pay for respite services. Respite services provide temporary care for your child either in your home or in an outside agency. If you are seeking respite support, it will be your responsibility to find appropriate and qualified workers to hire.
For more information about SSAH, visit https://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/index.aspx.
The Ministry of Community and Social Services manages the funds for Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities. This program provides financial assistance to parents of children with a disability to cover the extraordinary costs of caring for such a child. Your family income as well your child’s level of need are taken into consideration when determining eligibility. Financial assistance is provided on a monthly basis and an Ontario Drug Benefit card will also be provided. There is a detailed application to complete and a worker will visit your home to talk to you about your situation in greater detail.
Incontinence Supplies Grant Program, Easter Seal Society
The Incontinence Supplies Grant Program is fully funded through the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. It can help with the cost of diapers and other similar supplies for children three to 18 years old. Families receive the money directly. Your child must have a condition that causes a lack of control over the bladder permanently or for longer than six months. A doctor or nurse practitioner must complete the medical section of the form.
For more information, visit
https://www.easterseals.org.
Assistive Devices Program (ADP)
This program offers financial assistance for Ontario residents with long-term physical disabilities. Devices are intended to give people increased independence and control. To be eligible for this program, your child must have an Ontario health card and a physical disability for six months or longer. This program will pay up to 75% of the cost of items such as: wheelchairs, mobility aids, hearing aids, respiratory equipment, and visual and communication aids. An assessment to determine what your child needs is done through an ADP authorized practitioner such as an occupational therapist.
The Trillium Drug Program, Ministry of Health & Long-Term Care
The Trillium Drug Program provides medication coverage for Ontario residents who have a valid Ontario health card. If you or your family spend a large part of your earnings on medication, the Trillium Drug Program may be able to help with the costs. Once approved, coverage is for all members in a household. Medications listed in the Ontario Drug Benefit Formulary are covered. Families must pay a yearly deductible which is based on household income. Applications are available online or at your drug store. Please note that if you already have an Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) card through Community Care Access Centre, Ontario Works, Ontario Disability Support Program, or Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities, you will not be able to apply to the Trillium Drug Plan.
For more information, visit https://www.ontario.ca. In the Quicksearch box, type “Trillium Drug Program”.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
The Disability Tax Credit, also known as the Disability Amount, lowers the amount of tax you may owe if your child has severe, long-lasting mental or physical disabilities. The T2201 is an important document which is necessary to complete in order to qualify for the Disability Tax Credit, Caregiver Tax Credit, and other credits. A qualified physician must complete the medical part of the form and verify that your child has a “prolonged impairment” that significantly restricts an activity of daily living. The more detailed information that your doctor can provide on the form, the better this will be for your application. Some important points to remember about this application are:
- This form can be submitted any time of year.
- The “onset of impairment” is the very first date which the impairment began.
- The application can be back-filed (up to 10 years) to correspond with the “onset of impairment” date.
Child Disability Benefit
If you have a child who is 18 years of age or younger and you have already qualified for the Disability Tax Credit, you may be eligible for the Child Disability Benefit. This financial benefit helps low to modest income families by providing a monthly payment up to $199.58 per month. To apply for this program, you must have a signed Disability Tax Credit Certificate (see information above) as well as a completed Canada Child Tax Benefit application form (RC66).