To apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) in Canada, complete Part A of the T2201 application and have an authorized medical practitioner complete Part B. You can use the CRA’s digital application or mail a completed paper form.
The medical section should explain how your impairment affects everyday functioning, how often the limitations occur and how long they have lasted. A diagnosis alone generally does not establish eligibility.
New to the program? Start with our Disability Tax Credit guide for an overview of eligibility and potential tax savings.
Important Application Changes in 2026
- Since July 14, new DTC applications cannot be uploaded through the CRA account’s “Submit documents” feature. Use the dedicated digital DTC application or mail the paper form.
- Since September 8, paper forms dated before 2023 are no longer accepted. Download the current T2201 directly from the CRA.
See the CRA’s application update.
On This Page:
- 1. Before You Apply
- 2. Apply Online
- 3. Apply by Mail
- 4. Who Can Complete the Medical Section?
- 5. Preparing for Your Appointment
- 6. Processing and Next Steps
- 7. Frequently Asked Questions
- 8. Get Application Help
Before You Apply for the Disability Tax Credit
Check whether your limitations may meet the CRA’s requirements. Eligibility can arise from a marked restriction in an eligible category, the cumulative effect of significant limitations in multiple categories, or qualifying life-sustaining therapy.
For many everyday activities, the test considers whether you are unable to perform the activity or take at least three times longer than someone of a similar age without the impairment. The restriction generally must exist at least 90% of the time and last, or be expected to last, at least 12 continuous months.
The criteria differ by category. Our DTC medical-conditions guide can help you identify the relevant information to discuss with your practitioner.
Focus on Daily Life. Explain difficulties with activities such as dressing, walking, hearing or everyday mental functions. Being unable to work is not, by itself, the DTC eligibility test.
How to Apply for the DTC Online
- Start Part A: In your CRA account, select your Individual account, then “Benefits and credits” and “Apply for DTC.”
- Enter your information: Include any supporting family member details and review the consent options.
- Save the reference number: Give it to your medical practitioner.
- Your practitioner completes Part B: Using the reference number, they complete the medical section online. Their submission sends the completed digital application to the CRA.
The CRA also offers a telephone option for completing Part A. Follow its official digital application instructions.
Completing Part A does not finish your application. Arrange the medical appointment and follow up with the practitioner’s office about Part B.
How to Apply Using the Paper T2201 Form
Download the current T2201 Disability Tax Credit Certificate. Complete and sign Part A, then have your practitioner complete and sign Part B.
Mail both parts together to a tax centre listed in the CRA’s mailing instructions. Keep a readable copy and your mailing record.
Do not upload a scanned paper application through “Submit documents.” That feature is reserved for additional information specifically requested by the CRA, following the instructions in its request.
Who Can Complete Part B of the DTC Application?
- Doctor or nurse practitioner: All impairment categories.
- Optometrist: Vision.
- Audiologist: Hearing.
- Occupational therapist: Walking, feeding and dressing.
- Physiotherapist: Walking.
- Psychologist: Mental functions.
- Speech-language pathologist: Speaking.
A practitioner may charge for completing the form. Ask about the fee when booking.
What Should You Bring to Your Medical Appointment?
Prepare a short, accurate summary so you can explain your experience clearly. Useful discussion points include:
- The activity: Which everyday task is difficult?
- The effect: What happens when you try to do it?
- The time involved: How long does it take, including necessary pauses?
- The help needed: Do you need physical assistance, reminders or supervision?
- The pattern: How often does the limitation occur, including on better days?
- The history: When did these limitations begin, and what treatment or devices do you use?
Make Your Examples Specific. “My hands hurt” gives less information than explaining which fasteners you cannot manage, how long dressing takes and when another person must help. Describe your actual experience; examples are not a guarantee of approval.
Bring relevant records you already have and ask which further information would help. Your notes support the discussion; the practitioner must make their own assessment and complete the medical certification.
For condition-specific guidance, see our pages on ADHD, mental health, arthritis and diabetes.
What Happens After You Apply?
The CRA Reviews Your Application
The CRA compares the medical information with its eligibility criteria. Both parts must be complete and submitted through the same application method. If more information is needed, the CRA may contact your practitioner.
Check Progress and Respond to Requests
Processing times vary. Check your CRA account and the CRA’s review and processing information. If the CRA requests more evidence, follow the instructions and deadline in that letter.
If You Are Approved
Your notice of determination identifies the eligible years. Approval establishes eligibility; claiming the credit on your tax return is a separate step.
If you qualified in earlier years, adjustments may be available going back up to 10 years. Review whether you authorized previous-return adjustments and whether further action is required. See our DTC refunds guide.
If You Are Denied
Read the reasons carefully. You may have options to provide further information, request a review or object. The CRA states that an objection must be filed within 90 days of the notice of determination. Do not assume a review request extends that deadline.
Read what to do after a DTC denial.
DTC Application: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Completed Medical Form Guarantee Approval?
No. Medical certification supports the application, but the CRA decides whether the information meets the DTC requirements. Clear wording cannot replace qualifying limitations.
Can I Apply Without Hiring a DTC Service?
Yes. You can apply directly with your medical practitioner’s involvement. If you choose assistance, ask what the service includes, what it costs and who will handle follow-up requests.
Will Approval Automatically Give Me a Refund?
No. The DTC reduces income tax. A refund depends on your tax circumstances, the approved years and any eligible transfer to a supporting family member.
Do I Need a New Application Every Year?
Not necessarily. Check the approval period on your notice of determination. If the CRA requires a new application when that period ends, arrange updated medical certification.
Need help with a separate LTD insurance denial? Samfiru Tumarkin LLP’s disability lawyers assist with denied or terminated long-term disability insurance claims across Canada, excluding Quebec.