Is Depression a Disability?
One of the more difficult disabilities to diagnose, depression is defined as prolonged periods of sadness and low self-esteem over a length of time. A person experiencing depression can feel extreme sadness that’s inescapable; that trapped feeling manifests to affecting that person’s day-to-day living and personal relationships.
Causes of depression point to psychological, hereditary and even biological factors, which stems from chemical imbalances in the brain. The illness affects men and women of all ages ranging from teenagers to those in their 50’s and 60’s. According to clinical research, women are twice as likely to suffer from depression compared to men.
Treatment for depression is readily available thanks to a growing awareness and acceptance of the condition. Anti-depressants are extremely common, as are behavioural therapies – both manage the symptoms of depression effectively, enabling a person with dementia to lead a normal life as possible. Left untreated, depression can worsen into suicidal tendencies.
With the potentially fatal nature of the disease, depression has been classified as a disability by the Canadian government.
How Does the Disability Tax Credit Work?
To help offset costs and preserve a high quality of life, Canada Revenue Agency offers disability benefits like the Canadian Disability Tax Credit for people suffering from depression. Children with depression may also be eligible for the Child Disability Tax Credit.
Despite disability tax refunds available to many Canadians, unclaimed disability tax credits are very common. The DTC application process is meticulous and time-consuming, pushing people away from even applying.
How Can the NBA Help?
The National Benefit Authority is Canada’s largest disability tax service provider, having assisted thousands of Canadians in successfully claiming disability credits. Our in-house team of experts can help determine your Disability Tax Credit eligibility, and walk you through your Canadian Disability Tax Credit application (Form T2201). Disability benefits for depression can vary on a case-by-case basis, though disability for depression can be upwards of $50,000 per application.
Depression puts enough on you and your family’s minds, never mind adding the paperwork and research required for the Disability Tax Credit. We can guide you through every step towards recovering your unclaimed disability tax credit or Child Disability Tax Credit, helping you and your family maintain a high standard of living and quality of life.
