Is Crohn’s a Disability in Canada? – Disability Info & Resources

At True North Disability Services we often hear the question, “Is Crohn's a disability in Canada?” In this article, we’ll highlight everything you should know about Crohn's and the disability resources available in Canada. 

Those with Crohn’s disease deal with inflammation of the lining of their digestive tract. Because of this, they might grapple with a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact their daily lives. These can include persistent diarrhea, often severe and sudden, and abdominal pain and cramping that can intensify around meal times. Other symptoms may include blood in the stool, reduced appetite and weight loss, fatigue, and in some cases, fever or night sweats.

When living with such a condition, performing routine tasks might feel like an uphill battle. But here's some potentially good news - if you're living in Canada, you could be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. 

In this post, we'll explore what Crohn's disease is, how it can impact your life, and answer that critical question - Is Crohn's disease considered a disability in Canada?

The Impact of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Canada

Crohn's disease falls in the category of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, alongside a condition called ulcerative colitis.

There are approximately 233,000 Canadians living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: 129,000 with Crohn's disease and 104,000 with ulcerative colitis.

Any form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease can significantly affect a person's quality of life due to its array of severe symptoms and the personal toll it takes. IBD typically begins in early adulthood, although it can strike at any age, and it's a lifelong condition. 

While many individuals with IBD can lead fulfilling and productive lives through the use of medications and, in some cases, surgery, it's important to note that there's currently no cure for IBD. 

Is Crohn's a Disability in Canada?

Now, let's address the elephant in the room - Is Crohn's disease considered a disability in Canada? The short answer is, it can be. But let's dive a little deeper.

In Canada, a disability, as per the Canada Revenue Agency, is defined as a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions. 

A disability is generally defined as "an impairment that limits one or more major life activities such as walking, standing, dressing, lifting, or concentrating." These limitations may affect one's ability to work or perform self-care tasks to varying degrees.

When it comes to the Disability Tax Credit, Canadians can get approved under the following categories: Walking, Feeding, Dressing, Speaking, Hearing, Elimination, Mental Functions Necessary for Everyday Life, Vision, and Life-Sustaining Therapy. 

For those living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease like Crohn’s disease, you may qualify for the DTC under the category  “Elimination”. 

Crohn's disease, with its chronic and often debilitating symptoms, can indeed meet these criteria. However, some individuals with Crohn's disease might experience mild symptoms that, while uncomfortable, do not significantly interfere with their daily activities. On the other hand, some might suffer severe symptoms that make routine tasks a major challenge.

What Is The Disability Tax Credit?

The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax credit designed to lower the taxable income of individuals living with disabilities. If you've been managing a disability for some time, you might qualify for a retroactive tax credit, which can apply for up to 10 years if you meet the criteria.

Depending on the duration of your condition, you could potentially lead to a refund of up to $40,000 from the Canada Revenue Agency.

At True North Disability Services, we're proud to assist thousands of individuals each year in accessing the support they rightfully deserve.

For more information, check out our DTC FAQs section.

Qualifying for Disability Tax Credit With Crohn’s Disease 

If you're living with Crohn's disease and find that your symptoms significantly impact your daily life, you might be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. 

Now, let’s get into specifics. 

In order for one to be considered "Markedly Restricted" in the category Elimination, one must: 

• A) Be affected at least 90% of the time. 
• B) Require an inordinate amount of time (3x longer than the average person) to manage 1 or more functions of daily living. 

If you are going to the bathroom 3x more frequently than the average person, or take longer to manage this function due to pain and cramping, you may qualify. 

True North Disability Services Is Here Help You Qualify 

Living with Crohn's disease can be challenging, and navigating the complexities of the Disability Tax Credit application back and forth can add to that burden. But you don't have to do it alone. True North Disability Services is here to help (at zero risk to you). 

We specialize in assisting individuals with disabilities, like Crohn's disease, in applying for the Disability Tax Credit. Our team of experts understands the intricacies of the application process and can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate it successfully.

We believe that everyone who is eligible for the Disability Tax Credit should receive it. That's why we're committed to helping you understand your eligibility, gather the necessary medical information, and complete the application process.

If you or someone you care for is living with Crohn's disease, we encourage you to reach out to us —you may be entitled to a substantial refund from the Canadian Government through the Disability Tax Credit program. We would be more than happy to help you explore this possibility and guide you through the process.

To learn more about the Disability Tax Credit, don't hesitate to contact us today! There is no cost or risk to submitting your application through True North Disability Services. 

Click here to set up a free consultation. 

Summary: Is Crohn's a Disability in Canada?

Yes, Crohn’s disease is considered a disability in Canada. If you or someone you love lives with this disease, you may qualify for disability support such as the Disability Tax Credit. Reach out to True North Disability Services and we’ll try our best to get you the support you deserve.