The “Crip Tax”: What It Is and How to Reduce Its Burden
Living with a disability often comes with extra financial, emotional, and logistical costs—sometimes called the “Crip Tax.” This term highlights the hidden expenses people with disabilities face every day. From paying more for accessible housing or adaptive equipment, to the added time and effort it takes to navigate inaccessible systems, the Crip Tax can feel like an unfair penalty simply for existing in a world not built with disability in mind.
At Head and Heart Family Therapy, we work with adults with disabilities across Claremont, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Pasadena, and Pomona, helping individuals and families find ways to reduce these burdens and live fuller lives.
What is the Crip Tax?
The “Crip Tax” refers to the extra costs of living with a disability, which can include:
Financial costs: Specialized medical equipment, assistive devices, medications, or higher housing expenses.
Time costs: Extra hours spent on paperwork, transportation, or navigating systems that aren’t accessible.
Emotional costs: Stress, fatigue, and decision-making strain caused by systemic barriers and financial pressure.
These invisible costs add up and can impact independence, opportunity, and emotional well-being.
Ways to Reduce the Crip Tax
1. Level Up with the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR)
Employment is one of the most powerful tools for reducing the Crip Tax. The California Department of Rehabilitation offers services that help people with disabilities train, find, and maintain employment. Accessing higher-paying jobs or careers with growth opportunities can reduce financial stress while boosting confidence and independence.
2. Housing & Financial Relief: Tunnel to Towers Foundation
For veterans and first responders living with disabilities, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has been a lifeline. Since 9/11, this nonprofit has provided mortgage-free homes for Gold Star families and built custom-designed smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. They’re also committed to ending veteran homelessness and supporting families after disaster.
3. Tap Into Local Resources in Claremont, Upland, and Beyond
In communities like Claremont, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Pasadena, and Pomona, local nonprofits, advocacy organizations, and disability networks provide grants, equipment exchanges, and support groups. Check out our Head and Heart Resource Page for updated links to trusted support systems designed for adults with disabilities and their families.
4. Use Technology to Save Time and Energy
Apps that assist with transportation (such as paratransit scheduling), medication management, or grocery delivery can reduce both time and energy costs. Think of these tools as ways to “buy back” hours in your day.
5. Seek Support Through Therapy & Coaching
The emotional toll of the Crip Tax is real. Therapy and coaching can help process frustrations, create strategies for advocacy, and support problem-solving around daily challenges. At Head and Heart Family Therapy, we provide counseling for adults with disabilities throughout the Inland Empire and Los Angeles County.
Final Thoughts
The Crip Tax is unfair—but it doesn’t have to keep you stuck. By connecting with resources like the Department of Rehabilitation, foundations like Tunnel to Towers, and local disability advocacy groups in Claremont, Upland, Pasadena, Rancho Cucamonga, and Pomona, you can minimize some of these costs—financially, emotionally, and physically.
At Head and Heart Family Therapy, we are committed to helping adults with disabilities and their families find practical, empowering strategies to live fully and meaningfully.
