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Two-Thirds of RDSP Money Goes Unclaimed: How Ottawa's $70,000 Disability Benefit Actually Works

  Published August 19, 2026 Of the 311,000 active Registered Disability Savings Plans opened since the program launched in 2008, Canadians have contributed $3.3 billion — and Ottawa has matched that with $5.1 billion in grants and $2.1 billion in bonds, according to figures reported by BNN Bloomberg on Wednesday. That sounds like a program working as intended. It isn't. The same report cites the latest Statistics Canada tally showing that two-thirds of the government money set aside for the RDSP goes unclaimed every year, largely because eligible Canadians don't know the plan exists. If you or someone in your family is approved for the Disability Tax Credit, this is one of the highest-value accounts the federal government offers — richer, dollar for dollar, than the RRSP, the TFSA, or the RESP. Here's how the math actually works, and what it takes to claim your share. Who qualifies Anyone approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) — via CRA Form T2201, certified by a medi...

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How to Save Money on Kids’ Expenses Without Sacrificing Fun

Raising kids can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many ways to cut costs on kids’ expenses without compromising their happiness or well-being. Here are some tips to help you save money and still have fun with your kids:

  • Simplify birthday parties: Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on venues, food and entertainment, host a party at home or a nearby park. Kids will enjoy playing games, eating cake and spending time with their friends. You can also ask guests to bring a dish or a gift to share.
  • Postpone the trips: Traveling with kids can be enriching, but also costly and stressful. Wait until your kids are old enough to appreciate and remember the experience. You can also explore local attractions, go camping or visit relatives instead of flying abroad.
  • Reduce the clutter. Kids don’t need a lot of toys and books to be happy. Having too many can overwhelm them and reduce their creativity. Choose quality over quantity and donate or sell the ones they don’t use. You can also borrow books from the library, swap with friends or buy secondhand.
  • Delay the activities: Enrolling your kids in various activities can be beneficial, but also expensive and time-consuming. Consider whether your kids are ready and interested in the activity before signing them up. You can also encourage them to play outdoors, do arts and crafts or learn new skills at home.
  • Dress them smartly: Kids grow fast and their tastes change quickly. Buying them fancy clothes can be a waste of money and closet space. Opt for comfortable, durable and versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched. You can also shop at thrift stores, swap with friends or make your own clothes.

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