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Does the person with epilepsy have trouble obtaining life, health, automobile or disability insurance?

People with epilepsy can get insurance but it varies from company to company. An increasing number of companies are adopting a practice of assessing applications from persons with epilepsy on an individual basis, rather than relying on outdated information or broad assumptions about epilepsy.

When an agent reviews your application, there are several basic considerations taken into account:

• regular use of medication
• frequency of seizures
• complicating medical or physical condition, ex. heart disease
• employment
• use of alcohol
• driving record

It is important that you check with several insurance companies and compare the value of policies, since both price and coverage vary widely. Also, don't take for granted that if one company rejects your application, all companies will do the same.

If an insurance agent rejects the application verbally, ask for the reason in writing. This may make the company look more carefully at the application and it will give you a chance to reply, describing your own situation.

You may wish to find an insurance agent who deals with more than one insurance company.

Disability Tax Credit

The disability tax credit or DTC is a special credit available to you if you or your dependant has a severe and prolonged mental or physical impairment. People who are "markedly restricted" in performing at least one activity of daily living all or almost all of the time can qualify.

Not all people with disabilities will be able to claim the disability tax credit. The fact that you may qualify for and be receiving a federal or provincial disability pension or Workers' Compensation benefits does not automatically make you eligible to claim the DTC. In fact, very few people with epilepsy will qualify to receive the disability tax credit.

Anyone wishing the Revenue Canada Disability Tax Credit information kit should contact one of the Revenue Canada division offices or call toll-free 1-800-267-1267.