How Do I Provide for My Disabled Child When I Am Gone?

There has recently been a significant amount of media coverage related to the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). This plan has been heralded as one of the late Jim Flaherty's legacies to those families who are caring for disabled children and adults. Nonetheless, we continue to have clients who are unaware of the benefits of this wonderful program.

The RDSP creates the framework for a long-term savings plan to help Canadians with disabilities. and their families, save for the disabled person's future needs — especially after their caregivers are gone. This savings plan is financially complemented by the Canadian Government through two programs:the Canada Disability Savings Grant and the Canada Disability Savings Bond.

You should consider investigating tile ueuerits oi flue RDSP if you have a loved one that has a long-term disability and is:

• eligible for the Disability Tax Credit

• under the age of 60 (if you are 59, you must apply before the end of the calendar year in which you turned 59)

• a Canadian resident with a Social Insurance Number

You may contribute any amount to your RDSP each year. up to the lifetime contribution limit of $200,000. One significant attribute of the RDSP, is that, with written permission from the RDSP holder, anyone may contribute to the RDSP and provisions can be made for a contribution in your last will and testament. In addition, payments from the RDSP will not interfere with any benefits received under the Ontario Disability Support Plan.

For more information on RDSP's and the Canada Disability Savings Grant and Bond, you are encouraged to visit Employment and Social Development Canada and contact your financial or legal advisor.

 

Estate planning involves careful consideration of your life circumstances and the interplay of the law. Meeting with a competent lawyer who can navigate you though these considerations is paramount.