The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) is a tax-free benefit in Canada designed to provide additional financial assistance to families caring for a child with a severe and prolonged mental or physical disability. This benefit is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and is intended to help offset some of the extra costs associated with caring for a child with a disability.
Key features of the Child Disability Benefit include:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- The child must be under the age of 18.
- The child must be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). The DTC is a prerequisite for the CDB, and it involves demonstrating that the child has a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions.
- Tax-Free Benefit:
- The CDB is a tax-free monthly payment. It does not affect other benefits, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or provincial/territorial assistance programs.
- Application Process:
- To apply for the CDB, parents or guardians need to complete the Canada Child Benefits Application (RC66) form, which includes a section for the Disability Tax Credit Certificate (T2201).
- Retroactive Payments:
- In some cases, the CDB can be retroactive for up to 10 years, depending on when the child became eligible for the Disability Tax Credit.
- Amount of Benefit:
- The amount of the CDB varies based on family income and the level of disability of the child.
The Child Disability Benefit is a valuable support for families with children facing significant challenges due to a disability. It is part of the broader framework of government assistance programs aimed at helping families meet the needs of children with disabilities and ensuring their well-being.