Opportunity remains to simplify Disability Tax Credit access for Canadians with MS

November 5, 2026 — MS Canada is calling on the federal government to include multiple sclerosis (MS) in the streamlined Disability Tax Credit (DTC) application pathway, following a federal budget that leaves MS out. 

“Canadians living with MS need an application process that recognizes the lifelong and continuous impact of their disease,” said Benjamin Davis, Senior Vice-President, Mission at MS Canada. “This budget was an opportunity to reduce unnecessary paperwork and uncertainty.” 

Earlier this year, the government announced a streamlined DTC application pathway to reduce paperwork for people living with certain long-lasting medical conditions.  While MS was not included among the qualifying conditions in today’s budget, we will continue to advocate for the government to add MS to the streamlined pathway as part of the Spring Economic Update. 

MS is a formally diagnosed, lifelong and progressive neurological disease. While symptoms can fluctuate or be less visible, the underlying disease process continues and its impact can accumulate over time. As a result, people living with MS can face repeated medical forms, reassessments and uncertainty when the application process does not adequately reflect the ongoing impact of the disease. 

The DTC is a non-refundable tax credit that can reduce income tax payable by people with disabilities. DTC eligibility also affects access to the Registered Disability Savings Plan and the Canada Disability Benefit, making simpler access important beyond tax relief. 

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance recommended including MS in the streamlined pathway in its pre-budget report. Since September, the MS community has also sent more than 8,500 letters to the federal ministers responsible for finance and disability benefits urging the government to act. 

“MS fits the purpose of this pathway: a confirmed diagnosis of a lifelong disease should not mean repeatedly having to explain its continuing impact,” said Davis. “We will keep pressing for an application process that better reflects life with MS and reduces the burden on people seeking support.” 

MS Canada will continue advocating for MS to be included in the streamlined DTC pathway. Canadians are encouraged to sign up for advocacy updates to make their voices heard for people affected by MS.  

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