CRA aim to simplify disability tax credit application process

The Honourable Kerry-Lynne Findlay, P.C., Q.C., M.P., Minister of National Revenue, today announced upcoming consultations to support the Disability Tax Credit Promoters Restrictions Act, a private members bill initiated by Cheryl Gallant, Member of Parliament for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. The Act limits fees that can be charged for helping to complete a disability tax credit request, and ensures that more money remains with persons with disabilities and their caregivers.

The consultations will provide Canadians with disabilities, their caregivers, promoters, tax professionals, qualified practitioners and members from the general public with an opportunity to provide feedback on how the CRA can both simplify and clarify the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) application process. This feedback will also help our Government develop regulations under the Act that establish the maximum fee that can be charged or accepted from a client for completing a disability tax credit application and claiming the disability amount.

In addition to the in-person consultations, Canadians may also provide feedback through an online consultation tool, available now.

Quick facts

• Starting this month the CRA will begin both in-person and online consultations with Canadians surrounding the disability tax credit.
• Consultations will be held in four cities: Vancouver, Toronto, Montréal and Halifax. Feedback is also being accepted online.
• According to CRA data, approximately 1.1 million taxpayers are currently eligible for the DTC, and approximately 50% of them are seniors.
• For the 2012-2013 fiscal year, approximately 620,000 individuals claimed the DTC on their Income Tax and Benefit Return, for a total amount of $986 million.