That's great news! I suspect the amount you get will have to do with your previous tax returns and how much the tax credit affects them. I wouldn't be surprised if you get back thousands, but don't get too excited until it happens. The CRA website should allow you to see what the adjustments are before you get a refund. Good luck!

This might be a stupid question, but can I apply to this if I have a regular job and make a good salary? And would they backdate by more than 20 years do you think? I have no idea when the program started. I've had my ostomy since I was a child (I am 42 now), so I guess all the extra time, expense, and hassle of an ostomy I just think of as normal, so I feel guilty for applying?

Not a stupid question at all - you are completely entitled to it, and it's NOT affected by your income status (unlike other disability benefits).

They'd likely only backdate 10 years, but that's still going to be a significant refund.

I'd work with a doctor who knows your history, as the paperwork will need to be signed off when applying. And if you are declined, try again. Some people have to re-apply several times before they are approved.

If you don't have time to go through the process, there are organizations who will do all the leg work for a fee. You'd still be getting money back, and you'll be able to use the DTC going forward.

Good luck!

Good morning, once approved I know you get the tax credit when you submit your yearly income tax application.

Do you also get a one time yearly disability cheque?
Thank you

Hi Jeannette,

The way the Disability Tax Credit works is that the disability amount you're able to put on your income tax (this changes yearly) will lower your taxable income, often resulting in money back. It's not a cheque that you get separately.

There are disability programs which would get you a monthly cheque, but they are quite a bit different, and more difficult to qualify for, compared to the DTC.

If you are in Ontario, and have a permanent ostomy, you should also be getting grant money every six months.

You would need to apply to this, but it's a good amount of money to help cover ostomy supply costs.

Other provinces have their own programs which might help.

I have more details about various government grants in this article: https://www.veganostomy.ca/ostomy-supply-costs-canada/#Government_Grants