October is RDSP Awareness Month

In 2014, the government of BC declared October RDSP Awareness Month to help raise awareness about the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). The RDSP is the world’s first savings plan specifically designed for people with disabilities. Even with little to no personal contributions, there are significant government contributions available to help many people in Canada with disabilities save for their future.

Click the following links to learn more about the RDSP:

What is it?

Why open an RDSP?

How do I qualify?

Where do I get it?

Get help to open one.

Many eligible people are still missing out

We believe that every eligible person should have an RDSP, but unfortunately, we know this isn’t the case. Even with the financial security that it can provide, many people who qualify still don’t have an RDSP. 

Only about 31% of people who are approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and are aged 0-49 have opened an RDSP (49 is the cutoff for opening an RDSP and being able to receive government contributions). Being approved for the DTC is the most important thing to have before you can open an RDSP.

If you or someone you know has a disability, we encourage you to find out more. Contact your financial institution, our website, or Access RDSP for more information.

Access RDSP Can help

Access RDSP is a partnership between Plan Institute, BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS) and Disability Alliance BC (DABC). The purpose of the program is to increase uptake of the RDSP by helping people learn about, become eligible for and open an account. We provide support and resources every step of the way. BCANDS provides one-on-one direct service for Indigenous peoples. All our services are free!

The RDSP is a great resource for those it benefits, yet many still face barriers trying to access it. For example, a doctor can charge a fee for filling out a DTC application. We continue to advocate for positive changes that will make the RDSP more accessible.

Please help us spread the word! Here are a few ways you can do so:

• Tell someone about the RDSP
  • Send them to rdsp.com to learn more
  • Encourage them to contact their bank to find out more
• Share the graphic below on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
  • Use the text below or write your own.
  • Use the hashtag #RDSPawareness.
    

Ways to learn about the RDSP:

• • Take the online tutorial.
  • Register for one of our free RDSP webinars. We offer both a level 1 and 2 option. Click here to register.
  • If you still have questions about the RDSP or DTC or need help applying, please call our toll-free helpline at 1-844-311-7526 or email rdsp@info.ca.

Social Media Text:

October is #RDSPAwareness month! If you’re living with a disability and are under 50, you may be eligible for up to $90,000 in gov. grants and bonds with an RDSP. Access RDSP can help you every step of the way. www.rdsp.com