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Wednesday, June 8, 2011

RDSP an update.


Most of you are aware that the Canadian government started a program in 2007 allowing persons to apply for Bonds/Grants for retirement savings. I mention the bond and grant portion of the program
as they represent the best options ,there is a third component to the plan however it is basically a tax-free savings account nothing really special about that .

In order to participate in the program known as (RDSP) for Registered Disability Savings Plan one has to qualify for the disability tax credit and be 49 years of age or younger to participate.

The amount you receive is based on your family income, in any event you can receive all the information by visiting the Canada revenue site or entering registered disability savings plan in your Google search.

Since multiple sclerosis is one of the most common neurological diseases affecting young Canadians today I did not understand why 49 years of age would be the cutoff point for anyone to participate.
It really didn't make sense especially when you consider the average age for diagnosis is 37 years old and it takes 10 to 15 years for most people to require an assistive device which means by the time they qualify for the disability tax credit they are already too old to participate in this program.

After several e-mails actually quite a few e-mails to several ministers I was finally able to post the results of my findings along with my complaint to the Canadian Human Rights Commission for their review. If it is deemed acceptable their lawyers will present the case to the federal government responsible for the administration of this program . They will let me know how they can assist in removing this barrier or why they cannot which in my opinion is currently discriminatory.   As far as I'm concerned any limits regarding age should reflect our accepted retirement age which is 65 certainly not 49.

I'm not certain how long it will take for me to receive a reply yet be assured that once I do I will be spreading the word to everyone who can potentially benefit from this program.

I will also take this opportunity to thank my brother Roger for his help in preparing my final document, your input was much appreciated.

4 comments:

Kim@stuffcould.... said...

I hope it is easier in Canada to get disability. I know we need it...

MikeH said...

Hello Kim,
Personally I did not have any difficulty getting disability status from the government qualifying me for disability benefits.
This program RDSP is a program which is funded by the government, its purpose is to help individuals who are disabled save for retirement. The program is not available for individuals over 49 years of age and that to me is discriminatory, that is what I am raising with our Human Rights Tribunal.
Time will tell if I'm successful yet I really have nothing to lose and much to gain.
Wish me luck

Nicole said...

I hope things work out for you. Wow 49, that sounds crazy.
Nicole

MikeH said...

Nicole,
Yes 49 is definitely young especially when the retirement age here is officially 65 although with the current financial situation many people are working past this.
I visited your site and found it quite interesting, as for driving if you'd like some info I've been through it all. Currently driving a Toyota sienna made by Braun in Georgetown USA.
Initially went from a right accelerator to a left foot accelerator pedal and that worked wonders for several years until I needed the bloody wheelchair.
The van was the only option that I can actually drive it sitting in my wheelchair.
My e-mail is ppms@hotmail.ca
take care
Michael

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