PTSD and the DTC: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can qualify for the Disability Tax Credit under the mental functions necessary for everyday life category when it causes a marked restriction in the ability to manage daily life independently — even with medication and therapy.
For a comprehensive overview of the DTC, see our Complete Guide to the Disability Tax Credit in Canada. For more on the mental functions category, see our Mental Functions DTC Criteria guide.
How PTSD Affects Daily Functioning
PTSD can qualify for the DTC under the mental functions category when it causes a marked restriction in the ability to manage daily life independently. CRA evaluates whether PTSD symptoms — including hypervigilance, avoidance, emotional dysregulation, and cognitive impairment — prevent the person from performing basic activities of daily living.
Functional Impacts CRA Evaluates
CRA assesses whether PTSD causes a marked restriction in mental functions necessary for everyday life. The following functional impacts are commonly associated with DTC approval for PTSD:
- Inability to manage daily routines due to hypervigilance and sleep disruption
- Requiring supervision or accompaniment due to dissociative episodes
- Avoidance behaviours that prevent completion of necessary daily activities (leaving home, attending appointments)
- Severe emotional dysregulation that impairs decision-making and judgment
- Cognitive impairment (memory, concentration) that prevents independent task management
- Taking three times longer to complete routine activities due to trauma-related triggers
The restriction must be present all or substantially all of the time (at least 90%) — even with medication, therapy, and other treatments.
T2201 Guidance for PTSD
The T2201 for PTSD should describe the functional impact of symptoms on daily living — not the traumatic event itself. CRA evaluates whether the person can independently manage daily routines, make decisions, and function safely. The practitioner should describe specific restrictions and confirm they are present all or substantially all of the time, even with treatment.
Eligible Practitioners
The T2201 for PTSD under the mental functions category can be completed by:
- Nurse Practitioner
- Psychologist
- Psychiatrist
Related Diagnosis Guide
For a comprehensive guide to PTSD and the DTC — including CRA evaluation criteria, required documentation, and eligible practitioners — see our detailed guide: DTC for PTSD & Trauma-Related Disorders.
What to Expect After Applying
CRA typically processes DTC applications within 8 to 16 weeks. If approved, the credit can be applied retroactively for up to 10 years, potentially resulting in a refund of $5,000 to $25,000 or more.
If your application is denied, you can file a Notice of Objection within 90 days. Many PTSD applications that are initially denied are approved on objection when the resubmission includes more detailed functional language. See our Appeals and Objections guide for more information.
Take our free eligibility assessment → | Learn more about DTC for Mental Health & ADHD → | Call 1-844-MY-BENEFITS (1-844-692-3633)
This information is for educational purposes only. CRA makes all final eligibility determinations. Last updated: February 2026.
