What Will Happen When I am Gone?
Many parents worry about how their child with a disability will manage when they cannot care for them anymore. Making a plan can help. Some questions to ask:
- What are my child’s hopes, dreams, and goals?
- Who will offer friendship and keep them involved in the community?
- Where would I like my child to live?
- Who is able to help my child with important decisions?
- What costs will there be, and how can I make sure they are covered?
- Who will protect my child and speak up for them?
This might sound overwhelming. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- You are not alone. Reach out to other families in your situation for advice and support.
- Start slowly. You do not need to do everything at once.
- Do not expect your plan to be perfect. Any plan is better than none at all.
- Talk about plans with your child, other family members, and friends.
- Get help from a professional (e.g., financial planning, wills, and estates).
- Take care of yourself. Our page on parent wellbeing can help.
Financial Planning, Wills and Estates
Whether you have a little money or a lot, you can help protect your child’s financial future. Here are some things you can do:
- Use the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) to help you save money for your child’s future. You can take advantage of these programs even if you do not have money to invest.
- Make sure you have applied for all eligible funding and supports that your child qualifies for.
- Check out the . Their page on goes over wills and estates, trusts, and the RDSP.
- Talk to a financial advisor, accountant, and/or a wills and estates lawyer about investments, tax planning, estate planning, and guardianship.
