But even among Canadians familiar with the RDSP, there are misconceptions. For example, the survey found that 36% of people with potentially qualifying medical conditions and caregivers who hadn’t opened an account thought they didn’t have enough money to do so. One-third were also unaware of the free government RDSP grants and bonds.
In this article, we’ll clear up the confusion around these and other RDSP details, including five common myths about who can be an RDSP beneficiary, where to open an RDSP and more.
RDSP myth #1: RDSPs are only for kids
Just like with a TFSA or a RRSP, it’s a great idea to contribute to an RDSP as early as possible so the money has time to grow. A parent or legal representative can open an RDSP for a minor. An adult can open an RDSP before the year they turn 60. A parent, spouse, common-law partner, adult sibling or legal guardian can open an account for adults who can’t do it themselves. If you would like to make a contribution to a friend or family member’s RDSP, you will need written consent from the plan holder. The lifetime contribution limit for an RDSP is $200,000.
As the director of registered plans at Concentra Trust, Selena Gusikoski has professional insight into government programs. She also has personal experience. When her brother, Cody, was 38 years old, she helped him set up his own RDSP—a move that strengthened his financial situation considerably.
“Although you can open an RDSP as an adult, ideally you want to open it as early as possible so you can get as much grant and bond money as possible,” says Gusikoski. The federal government allows applicants to claim up to 10 years of payments for previous years (if they meet the DTC eligibility criteria for those years), so even later applications are beneficial.
RDSP myth #2: You have to make RDSP contributions to qualify for government funds
Yes and no—it depends. RDSP beneficiaries may be eligible to receive grants and bonds. Here’s how to qualify for each:
Canada Disability Savings Grants are matched contributions made by the Government of Canada. The amounts depend on the beneficiary’s adjusted family net income and the amount contributed to the account. For the 2025 calendar year, the maximum RDSP grant amount is $3,500 a year for those whose family income is $114,750 or less, and $1,000 for those with a family income over $114,750. The lifetime maximum for matching grants is up to $70,000.
Canada Disability Savings Bonds are available to low-income Canadians with disabilities, who can receive up to $1,000 per year towards their RDSP whether they contribute or not. The amount is based on the beneficiary’s adjusted family net income. In 2025, families with an income of $37,487 or less will receive the full $1,000. Those earning $57,357 or more aren’t eligible, and families with incomes in between will receive a portion of the bond. There is a lifetime maximum of $20,000 for bonds.
Also important to know: you can “carry forward” up to 10 years of unused grant and bond entitlements. (See RDSP matching rates for past years.)
When Gusikoski’s brother applied for his RDSP, that’s what he did. “As long as the beneficiary met the DTC eligibility requirements for those years, they can claim those government contributions,” says Gusikoski. “You can do this before the year in which you turn 49. It could be a substantial nest egg for your future.”
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