Legislation on COVID-19 Disability Payments Receives Royal Assent

People with disabilities are eligible for a one-time, tax-free payment of $600 to help with extraordinary expenses incurred during the COVD-19 pandemic. Known as Bill C-20, the legislation received Royal Assent on Monday, July 27.

To be eligible of the funding under Bill C-20, you must be a recipient of one of the following programs or benefits:

• You hold a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate.

• You currently receive Canada Pension Plan disability benefits; or

• You are in receipt of disability supports provided by Veterans Affairs Canada.

If you are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) but have not applied, you have 60 days to apply for the DTC and receive the one-time, non-taxable, non-reportable payment of $600.

To learn if you are eligible to receive the DTC, use the following link to fill out a questionnaire that asks three questions: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/segments/tax-credits-deductions-persons-disabilities/disability-tax-credit/you-eligible-disability-tax-credit-3.html

When you’re ready, use Form T2201, Disability Tax Credit Certificate, to apply for the DTC. You can get the form and instructions by following this link: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/segments/tax-credits-deductions-persons-disabilities/disability-tax-credit/step-step-instructions-filling-form-t2201.html