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After an autism diagnosis: what to do first

Do all four of these as soon as possible. You can work on them at the same time. Applying for one does not block the others.

1

Register with AccessOAP

This gets you in line for Core Clinical therapy funding. Invitations are based on your child's OAP registration date.

How: Online at accessoap.ca or call 1-833-425-2445 (Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm ET)

2

Apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

Federal. DTC approval is required for RDSP access and Child Disability Benefit eligibility. Retroactive up to 10 years.

How: Get Form T2201 from CRA. For autism-related restrictions under mental functions, Part B is usually certified by a medical doctor, nurse practitioner, or psychologist. Other practitioners can certify only the areas they are authorized to assess, such as speaking, walking, feeding, or dressing. Submit online through CRA My Account or by mail.

3

Apply for Special Services at Home (SSAH)

Provincial respite and support funding. Separate Ontario program from OAP, with its own eligibility rules. SSAH is discretionary — applying does not guarantee approval.

How: Apply online at ontario.ca or call your regional MCCSS office.

4

Sign up for Foundational Family Services

Free workshops, mentoring, and consultations. No invitation needed. Availability varies by provider and region.

How: Find a provider in your region and contact them directly.

Eligibility does not guarantee approval. Some programs have waitlists, discretionary funding, or separate review processes.

Also consider

  • If your child is 12-48 months: ask AccessOAP about CMEY (Caregiver Mediated Early Years). Access is by AccessOAP invitation
  • If your child is entering kindergarten or Grade 1: ask AccessOAP about Entry to School
  • If household income is under the current ACSD threshold (listed as $76,920 on the current Ontario application form): apply for ACSD (payments listed as $25 to $678 per month)
  • If your child needs equipment: check ADP before using OAP funds
  • Talk to your child's school about an IEP (no diagnosis required)

Key contacts

  • AccessOAP: 1-833-425-2445 | accessoap.ca
  • CRA (DTC): 1-800-959-8281
  • OAP Provider List: oapproviderlist.ca
Back to Start HereSee all funding guides

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