Financial Planning & Benefits

Planning for the future - with confidence and support.

Navigating financial planning, government benefits, and long-term savings can feel overwhelming - but you don't have to figure it all out on your own. This page brings together key financial resources and programs available to individuals with Down syndrome and their families in Manitoba and across Canada to help you plan ahead, access the benefits you deserve, and build a more secure future.

Find Out What Benefits You're Eligible For

Benefits Finder - Government of Canada

Not sure what government benefits you or your loved one may be eligible for? The Benefits Finder is a free, confidential online tool that generates a customized list of federal, provincial, and territorial benefits based on your situation. It does not collect or track your personal information - the more questions you answer, the more tailored your results will be.

Use the Benefits Finder

Government Benefits & Tax Credits

Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

A non-refundable tax credit that reduces the amount of income tax individuals with disabilities - or their supporting family members - may have to pay. Eligibility for the DTC is also required to open a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). Apply through the Canada Revenue Agency.

Learn About the Disability Tax Credit

Child Disability Benefit (CDB)

A tax-free monthly payment made to families who care for a child under the age of 18 with a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions. Eligibility is based on approval for the Disability Tax Credit.

Learn About the Child Disability Benefit

Canada Caregiver Credit

A non-refundable tax credit available to individuals who support a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent with a physical or mental impairment. Speak with a tax professional or visit the CRA website for details on eligibility and amounts.

Learn About the Canada Caregiver Credit

Long-Term Savings

Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)

The Registered Disability Savings Plan is one of the most important financial tools available to individuals with disabilities in Canada. The RDSP is a long-term savings plan to help people who are approved for the Disability Tax Credit save for the future. When you open a plan, you may also qualify for grants and bonds from the Government of Canada to help grow your savings over time. Starting an RDSP early can make a tremendous difference in your loved one's long-term financial security.

Learn About the RDSP

RDSP Plan Institute - Access RDSP Program

The Access RDSP Program provides free support to help people access and understand the Registered Disability Savings Plan. The program's goal is to reduce barriers, spread awareness, and support people with disabilities across Canada to save for their future - including helping families navigate the application process and maximize their plan.

Visit the RDSP Plan Institute

Financial Empowerment

Free money-saving courses and personalized assistance are available to help individuals and families confidently manage their finances, access benefits, and maximize tax savings. These programs are designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to build financial confidence and independence.

Explore Financial Empowerment Resources

Education Funding

Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities

This federal grant provides financial support to post-secondary students with disabilities for each year of study. It can be applied for at the same time as provincial or territorial student aid.

Learn About the Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities

Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment - Students with Disabilities

If your loved one needs education-related services or equipment to participate in post-secondary education, this grant can help cover those costs. Apply at the same time as provincial or territorial student aid.

Learn About the Grant for Services and Equipment

Estate Planning

Planning for the future of a loved one with Down syndrome is one of the most important - and loving - things a family can do. Key components of a strong estate plan for families of individuals with disabilities often include wills, Henson Trusts, and Powers of Attorney.

Estate Planning Video Tutorial

A free video tutorial sharing insights on preparing wills, establishing Henson Trusts, creating Powers of Attorney, developing tax planning strategies, and understanding the overall impact of estate planning on social benefits for individuals with disabilities.

Watch the Estate Planning Tutorial

Continuity Care - Future Planning for Manitoba Families

Continuity Care is a Winnipeg-based not-for-profit dedicated to helping Manitoba families plan for a safe and secure future for their loved one with an intellectual disability. Their Circle of Life Workbook and workshops cover future planning, housing, legal supports, and building a circle of support. Membership includes individualized planning support and assistance accessing community resources.

Phone: 204-779-1679
E-mail: info@continuitycare.ca
Visit Continuity Care

We strongly recommend consulting with a legal or financial professional who has experience with disability planning - including wills, trusts, and Powers of Attorney - to ensure your family's plan is legally sound and tailored to your circumstances.

Transportation Assistance

WINNpass - City of Winnipeg

The WINNpass program provides individuals with low income the opportunity to receive a 50 percent discount off the full-fare rate for monthly Winnipeg Transit passes and e-cash rides - helping ensure that getting around the city remains accessible and affordable.

Learn About WINNpass

Manitoba-Specific Financial Supports

Community Living disABILITY Services (CLDS)

CLDS provides funding and supports for eligible adults with intellectual disabilities in Manitoba, including residential services, day services, and supports for individuals living at home. Contact your regional CLDS office to learn about available funding and how to access it.

Visit CLDS

Employment and Income Assistance (EIA)

The Government of Manitoba's Employment and Income Assistance program provides financial support to individuals and families in need, including those with disabilities. Eligibility and benefit amounts vary by circumstance.

Learn About EIA

Manitoba Accessibility Office

The Manitoba Accessibility Office provides information on programs, supports, and funding available to Manitobans with disabilities, and can help connect families with provincial resources.

Visit the Manitoba Accessibility Office

Manitoba Down Syndrome Society

Financial Planning