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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. Your doctor fills Part B. 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 about CMEY (Caregiver Mediated Early Years)
  • 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 $665 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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