How does the Government of Canada Define “Disability”?

Taking the first step in applying for disability benefits may seem like a big move. But don’t let this stop you – it’s easier than you think. In fact, you can accomplish this from where you are sitting right now.

To start the process of applying for Canada’s disability tax benefits, research how the government of Canada defines disability.

The First Step to Benefits is Research

Learning more about how the government of Canada defines disability will help you determine whether or not you qualify to receive money from the CRA.

Research can guide you through the diagnosis process, give you effective information for the application process, and connect you with other people who have similar disabilities and receive benefits as a result.

What is “Disability”?

Do you know the term “disability” encompasses a variety of afflictions like down syndrome, PTSD, Multiple Sclerosis, and ADHD? Disability is a broad subject and not easy to define. In fact, the word is very vague.

This is why the government of Canada often considers severity of an individual’s situation over his or her technical diagnosis. For instance, one of the many benefit programs, the Canadian Pension Plan (CPP), is available to those who have “severe and prolonged” disability – meaning you are unable to work any job and will probably not return to work anytime soon. Therefore, two people may have the same disability but receive different benefits.

For this reason, it is important you receive a proper diagnosis from your physician and are able to clearly define the issues that surround your disability.

What is Your Disability?

Before you even begin researching the government of Canada’s definition of disability, make sure you fully understand how your unique condition affects your financial needs.

When thinking about this, you may benefit from reflecting on the following questions:

– What do I need money for?
– Why am I in need of additional income?
– How does my physical or mental health prevent me from earning a sufficient income?
– Are there any possible jobs that I can work despite my disability?
– Have I been rejected by potential or past employers because of an inability to perform required job tasks.

In most cases, a person qualifies for financial benefits if a disability is severe and has long-term effects on his or her ability to earn an income.

To learn more about how the government of Canada defines disability, visit this website: http://www.thenba.ca/what-is-a-disability.html.

In addition, this webpage helps guide those who are looking to qualify for the Canadian Pension Plan: http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/isp/cpp/applicant.shtml.

The CRA has money reserved for those who need it. If you are unable to work because of health problems, start collecting research about your disability today.