- Do I need the Disability Tax Credit to use this calculator?
- Yes. Government RDSP grants and bonds require CRA approval of the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) for the beneficiary. If DTC is not approved yet, this tool can show next steps but cannot estimate grants or bonds.
- Which family income does the government use?
- For each plan year, Employment and Social Development Canada uses adjusted family net income from the tax return filed about two years earlier. Under 19, that is usually a parent or guardian's income; at 19+, it is the beneficiary's income (plus a spouse's when applicable).
- How much do I need to contribute to maximize the grant?
- At lower incomes, contributing up to $1,500 in a year can receive up to $3,500 in matching grant (300% on the first $500 and 200% on the next $1,000). At higher incomes, only the first $1,000 may match at 100% ($1,000 grant). This tool shows the tier for your entered income.
- What are the annual and lifetime limits?
- Matching grants are capped at about $3,500 per year and $70,000 lifetime. Bonds are capped at about $1,000 per year and $20,000 lifetime. Grants and bonds generally stop after the beneficiary turns 49.
- How accurate is carry-forward?
- Carry-forward depends on which DTC years had unused grant room and what was already contributed. MyEligible cannot access your Statement of Entitlement or plan history, so carry-forward here is an illustrative estimate. Confirm unused room with your plan provider before contributing.