Why Disability Tax Credit Applications So Often Stall
Applying for the Disability Tax Credit is rarely about proving that a diagnosis exists.
Most applications are denied or delayed because the impact on daily functioning is not clearly or consistently documented in a way that aligns with CRA criteria.
Families are often left wondering:
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“We know our child struggles—why wasn’t that enough?”
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“The diagnosis is real, so why was the application denied?”
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“What exactly is CRA looking for?”
At this stage, the decision is not whether support is needed.
It is who you trust to document it accurately and responsibly.
At Eckert Centre, we help families translate real-life limitations into clear, defensible clinical language that reflects how a disability affects everyday functioning—so applications are grounded, coherent, and aligned with CRA requirements, rather than relying on vague descriptions or assumptions.
This is where careful clinical thinking matters.
What a Disability Tax Credit Assessment Is Designed to Do
A Disability Tax Credit assessment is not a general psychological evaluation, and it is not about re-diagnosing a condition.
Its purpose is specific: to determine whether a disability substantially and persistently limits daily functioning in ways that meet CRA criteria.
This assessment is designed to clarify:
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How a disability affects day-to-day activities, not just abilities in ideal conditions
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Whether limitations are present all or substantially all of the time, as defined by CRA
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How much extra time, effort, support, or supervision is required for everyday tasks
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Whether limitations remain even when appropriate strategies, accommodations, or supports are in place
Importantly, CRA decisions hinge on function, not labels.
Two people with the same diagnosis may receive very different outcomes depending on how clearly functional impact is documented.
At Eckert Centre, we approach this work with precision and restraint—ensuring that limitations are described accurately, ethically, and in a way that reflects real life rather than exaggeration or minimization.
This protects families from both unnecessary denials and inappropriate claims.
How Disability Tax Credit Assessments Are Conducted at Eckert Centre
Disability Tax Credit assessments at Eckert Centre are designed to be careful, accurate, and aligned with CRA standards—without unnecessary testing or inflated claims.
These assessments are led by psychologists who understand both clinical presentation and CRA decision criteria, and who know how to translate real-life functioning into defensible documentation.
Our process includes:
1. Clarifying Eligibility and Scope
We begin by reviewing the existing diagnosis, medical history, and reason for referral to confirm that a DTC assessment is appropriate.
This step protects clients from paying for services that are unlikely to meet CRA requirements.
2. Reviewing Prior Assessment and Diagnostic Information
DTC assessments rely on existing diagnostic evidence.
We do not repeat full psychological testing when it is not required. Instead, we build on prior assessments or diagnostic letters to ensure continuity and accuracy.
3. Evaluating Functional Impact in Daily Life
Through focused clinical interviews and structured review, we assess how the disability affects everyday functioning, including:
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Mental processing and decision-making
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Communication and comprehension
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Self-care and daily living tasks
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Need for supervision, prompting, or additional time
We pay close attention to how functioning looks across environments and over time, not just in isolated situations.
4. Accurate Completion of CRA Documentation
We complete the DTC (T2201) forms with language that is:
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Clinically precise
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Consistent with CRA definitions
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Grounded in documented functional impact
This work is done carefully, recognizing that inaccuracies—either overstatement or understatement—can lead to denial or future complications.
Throughout the process, clients are kept informed about findings, scope, and next steps.
Who Disability Tax Credit Assessments Are — and Are Not — a Good Fit For
A Disability Tax Credit assessment at Eckert Centre is designed for individuals and families who want the process handled carefully, accurately, and responsibly.
This assessment is often a good fit if:
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You or your child already has a documented diagnosis or prior assessment
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The disability has a prolonged and significant impact on daily functioning, as defined by CRA
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You want documentation completed by a psychologist who understands both clinical reality and CRA criteria
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You value accuracy and ethical reporting over guarantees or inflated claims
This assessment may not be the right fit if:
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You are seeking a diagnosis for the first time
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You are hoping the DTC assessment itself will establish eligibility without prior documentation
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You are looking for the lowest-cost or fastest option without clinical review
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You want language added that is not clinically or ethically supportable
We believe ethical assessment includes being clear about what this service can and cannot do.
Our role is not to promise approval—but to provide accurate, defensible documentation that reflects real-world functioning and meets professional standards. This protects clients both now and in the long term.
Disability Tax Credit Assessment Pricing & Clinical Scope
$1,820 (based on billable hour of $260)
This service is designed for individuals who already have established documentation supporting a disability and require professional completion of the CRA Disability Tax Credit (T2201) forms.
What This Assessment Is Designed For
This assessment focuses specifically on whether the individual meets the CRA’s functional eligibility criteria for the Disability Tax Credit—not on diagnosing new conditions or re-evaluating development.
It is intentionally narrower in scope than a comprehensive psychological assessment, while still requiring careful clinical judgment.
What Your Fee Reflects
Your fee covers the professional time and responsibility required to complete this work properly, including:
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Review of prior assessments, diagnostic letters, and medical documentation
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Clinical interview focused on day-to-day functional impact, not just diagnosis
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Application of CRA eligibility criteria to real-world functioning
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Accurate, ethical completion of the T2201 Disability Tax Credit form
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Senior-level clinical judgment to ensure documentation is defensible and appropriate
Because DTC applications can affect financial planning, government benefits, and long-term supports, this work must be completed with care and integrity.
Important Scope Note
This assessment requires prior documentation (such as a psychological assessment or diagnostic letter) to corroborate the diagnosis.
If this documentation is not already in place, we will discuss whether a different type of assessment would be more appropriate before proceeding.
Please note: Fees are subject to change. Final cost may vary slightly depending on the complexity of file review required.
Ready to move forward—or still figuring it out?
If you’re considering a Disability Tax Credit assessment—or are unsure whether this is the right service for your situation—we recommend starting with a free consultation call with a psychologist.
This conversation allows us to:
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Check for existing documentation
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Confirm whether a DTC assessment is appropriate
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Ensure the scope, timing, and fees are clear before you commit
This step helps protect you from unnecessary services and ensures the assessment truly fits what you need.
Ways to Connect With Us
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Book a Free Consultation Call (recommended first step)
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Submit a Contact Form if you prefer written communication
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Call: 403-230-2959
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Email: info@eckert-psychology.com
Our team is here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and a process that feels supportive and respectful.
