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Definitions of Arthritis and Depression

Below are definitions of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis and Depression which can help describe these medical conditions when you and/or your medical professional complete the medical forms in benefit applications.

Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Chronic pain
  • Restricted mobility
  • Stiffness
  • Hands – tremors, restricted usage, restricted gripping
  • Numbness in right leg
  • Uses a cane for outdoor mobility
  • Medications: Tramadol & Emtec

Depression

  • Low mood
  • Low motivation
  • Restricted memory
  • Poor concentration
  • Easily overwhelmed
  • Severe anxiety
  • Suicidal ideations (suicidal thoughts)
  • Medications: Zopiclone and Effexor
  • Requires ongoing counselling

Resources

If your DTC application is denied

If your Disability Tax Credit application is denied, you will get a ‘notice of determination’ letter from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

If your CPP-D application is denied

You will get a decision letter from Service Canada. It will explain why your application was denied.

How to find a doctor or nurse practitioner who will work with you

I need help with my Disability Tax Credit

You can ask for support before, during and after applying for your DTC.

Disability Alliance BC - Sample Letter for Your Doctor

Dear Doctor, I am writing to ask you to complete a Medical Report for my application for Canada Pension Plan disability benefits.

How do I get a Social Insurance Number?

Find your birth certificate, Certificate of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence card. These are called primary documents.

How you can help your medical practitioner complete the DTC medical form

If you are unable to open an RDSP

If you have trouble opening an RDSP, even if you meet all the eligibility criteria, it is usually because your financial institution is missing some information.

Impact on daily living activities

Here are some examples of how you might describe the impact on daily living activities.

There are three ways to file income taxes

You can file your taxes electronically (online) using NETFILE (an electronic tax-filing service that sends your tax return directly to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Questions to ask when deciding which financial institution to choose to open your RDSP.

Is the financial institution convenient for me to reach?

How do I set up a My Self Serve (MySS) account

My Self Serve (MySS) provides online access to income and disability assistance for residents of British Columbia.

What province are you from?

Knowing your province helps us make this tool the best experience for you.

Important information about benefits for Indigenous Peoples

If you are Indigenous there are many things that affect the benefits you can get and the dollar amounts you can get from them. These include the agreements your band or governing body has with provincial, territorial, and federal governments. Before applying to any benefits, you should speak with your governing body, if applicable.

AFOA Canada and Prosper Canada are currently seeking funding to develop an online tool that serves the needs of Indigenous people living in Canada.