Fibromyalgia, also known as FM or FMS affects approximately 2% of people in Canada and most of them (80-90%) are women.¹ FM can bring about a range of symptoms both physically and mentally, including widespread pain, the 18 tender points, fatigue, morning stiffness, “fibro fog” (characterized by concentration and memory problems), depression, anxiety, sleep problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and numbness and tingling sensations, among others. Many people with Fibromyalgia do not realize it qualifies for the disability tax credit.
Living with fibromyalgia often face significant healthcare expenses, with treatments and remedies that go beyond what is covered by the Canadian healthcare system. Recognizing the financial burden associated with fibromyalgia, the Canadian Government offers financial assistance through the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and other related disability benefits.
By qualifying for the disability tax credit (DTC) and related benefits, you can receive substantial financial support. Approved individuals often receive amounts ranging from $1,600 to $50,000, providing much-needed relief from the financial strain of managing fibromyalgia.
Disability Tax Credit for Fibromyalgia
You can take the first step and Request a Free Review. Our team will assess your eligibility and provide you with the necessary guidance to navigate the application process successfully.
Questions and Answers – Disability Tax Credit for Fibromyalgia
- Is Fibromyalgia eligible for the Disability Tax Credit?
Yes, absolutely. Fibromyalgia can qualify for the disability tax. It’s important to note that the eligibility criteria focus on the symptoms you experience, rather than the diagnosis or condition of fibromyalgia itself. - How much is the CRA Disability Tax Credit?
You can receive a disability tax credit refund of more than $27,000, depending on the province or territory you reside in. Much more if you qualify for the other related benefits. - What am I entitled to if I have Fibromyalgia? What Benefits can I claim?
You may qualify for a disability tax credit refund ($27,000), the Child Disability Benefit, the Canada Caregiver Credit, a supplement to the Canada Workers Benefit, Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) which can result in receiving up to $50,000. - Is Fibromyalgia considered a permanent disability in Canada?
It can be. It depends on the symptoms you experience but often it is. - At what point does Fibromyalgia qualify for the Disability Tax Credit?
Fibromyalgia may qualify for the disability tax credit when it meets the threshold established by the CRA and is considered a “severe and prolonged” impairment. Severe means that the symptoms impact one or more of the basic activities of daily living which include walking, getting dressed, meal preparation, memory, concentration, and several others, to the point where it takes a significantly longer amount of time to perform the task when compared to someone without an impairment. The threshold is lessened when you can combine two or more activities. Fibromyalgia can often impact someone in several ways, both physically and mentally, which makes it that much more important to thoroughly review the symptoms someone experiences before applying. Prolonged means the impairment has lasted or is expected to last at least a twelve month period of time. - How can I get approved for the DTC for Fibromyalgia?
The first step to getting approved is to Request a Free Eligibility Assessment. We have a lot of experience helping Canadians with Fibromyalgia to get approved for the disability tax credit and related benefits. We’re here to help.
Sources:¹ Arthritis Society of Canada, ‘What is Fibromyalgia’ https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/fibromyalgia