Disability
Prolonged impairment
An impairment expected to last, or that has lasted, for a continuous period of at least 12 months (or is likely to result in death).
Short-term conditions usually do not meet prolonged impairment tests for major disability benefits.
Where you may see this
DTC, CPP-D, and many provincial disability program definitions.
The exact definition and rules can differ by program. Check the official rules for the benefit you are applying for.
Related terms
Disability
Canada Disability Benefit (CDB)
A federal monthly payment for working-age people with disabilities who meet income and DTC-related requirements. It is separate from provincial disability assistance.
View termDisability
DTC renewal
Re-applying for the Disability Tax Credit when CRA's approval period ends or your condition changes.
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Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
A non-refundable tax credit for people with severe and prolonged impairments in physical or mental functions. Approval is based on how your condition affects daily life, not on your diagnosis alone.
View termDisability
Functional limitation
A restriction in your ability to perform everyday activities such as walking, remembering, or managing personal care, often described in disability assessments.
View termDisability
Medical adjudication
The process a government program uses to review medical evidence and decide whether you meet its disability definition.
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