Disability Tax Credit: Affecting Lives of Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosed
Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a debilitating chronic autoimmune disease. With UC, the lining of the large intestine becomes inflamed when a person’s immune system mistakenly identifies materials normally found there as being foreign bodies and attacks. Over time the walls of the intestine succumb to the immune system onslaught and develop painful ulcers. As a result the person with UC is almost never comfortable and may feel the need to evacuate their colon many times a day.
How Ulcerative Colitis Can Affect A Person’s Life
Ulcerative colitis inevitably requires changes in everything from diet to traveling routines. Many who suffer from UC experience acute, chronic pain and discomfort that can severely restrict their ability to earn a living as well.
Socializing – A person with UC may need to carefully plan their itinerary before going out; whether on a date or just taking the kids to the park. It’s important for many to:
- Eat slowly and be careful not to overeat.
- Know the restroom situation where they’re going and never stray far from one.
- Avoid packed restaurants, bars or clubs where there might be a line for the restroom.
- Bring along medications and emergency supplies like a change of undergarments.
- Always have an exit strategy should they need to leave in a hurry.
Traveling – UC can have a major impact on a person’s ability to travel, whether for business or pleasure. As traveling takes people away from their maintenance routine and support system it can be an intimidating thing to contemplate for many with UC. Among other things…
- If going to a country with a poor sanitation record they’ll need to be careful what they eat and drink in order to avoid aggravating their situation.
- They should know the location of hospitals where they’re going in case of emergency and should always bring extra medication in case return flights are delayed.
- If going to a large foreign city they should investigate whether there are any UC support groups and if there are they should check in when they arrive.
Working – Attempting to maintain an ascendant career path while battling ulcerative colitis can be an enormous challenge.
- Being called away by the condition during an important meeting can hurt career prospects.
- People with UC often come face-to-face with the ignorance of others which can manifest itself in cruel and regrettable fashion.
- Informing prospective employers of the condition may result in subtle but real discrimination.
The Helping Hand of The Disability Tax Credit
Recent studies indicate the cost of treating chronic UC may approach $10,000 per year. That figure does not include income lost due to career setbacks, unpaid sick leave or emergency room visits. As a result many people suffering from UC may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. The Disability Tax Credit, or DTC, was intended to assist those burdened with substantial and unique expenses as a result of their disability. If eligible, an individual or family may qualify for up to $40,000 in annual relief and may also be eligible to receive up to 10 years worth of benefits retroactively. For more information about the application process, do read our guide on the Disability Tax Credit Certificate.
Need Help With Your Application? Contact Our Team Today!
Disability Credit Canada can help you obtain these important benefits by shepherding your application through the complex and lengthy DTC approval process. Over the years we’ve helped untold numbers of disabled Canadians receive the benefits for which they’re entitled. We’re proud of the results we obtain for our clients but know there are many more out there who could benefit from our services. If you are one of them, give us a call today and begin lifting the scourge of excessive disability-related costs from your life once and for all.