Disability Tax Benefits for Infantile Spasms
Infantile spasms, also known as West’s syndrome, is a brain disorder characterized by epileptic spasms.
These spontaneous spasms generally occur in children under the age of one. Associating infant seizures to West’s syndrome can be tricky, as there are a variety of illnesses that affect newborns, especially with the unpredictability of their behaviour. The condition can also lead to developmental problems and learning disabilities.
Causes of infantile spasms have been attributed to birth defects and metabolic diseases, in addition to genetic deformations and abnormalities.
A child suffering from the condition may suddenly fall into rapid, jerk-like spasms, with the child’s head, arms, and legs bending forward. This bowling-like motion is why some medical practitioner’s call these infant seizures ‘salaam’ attacks. Fortunately, symptoms tend to recede with age, though other forms of epileptic seizures can still occur.
Advancements in medicine have facilitated the creation of effective anti-epileptic drugs as the primary treatment for West’s syndrome, with surgery being a last-resort alternative.
How Does the Disability Tax Credit Work?
West’s syndrome, due to its impact on a child’s health, as well as the extra attention and treatment costs required from parents, is classified as a disability by the Canadian government. To help offset the costs of extra care or special treatments, Canada Revenue Agency provides disability benefits like the Canadian Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and Child Disability Tax Credit (CDTC) for families of children with infantile spasms.
Despite disability tax refunds available for many eligible Canadians, unclaimed disability tax credits are surprisingly common. The DTC application process can become long and complex, pushing people away from even submitting their T2201 form.
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. Disability Tax Credit amounts vary on a case-by-case basis, but can be upwards of $50,000 per application!
Helping your child with West’s syndrome can be a handful in itself, never mind adding the extra paperwork and effort required for a successful claim. We can guide you through every step towards recovering your Child Disability Tax Credit, helping your young one live an active and happy lifestyle.
