Medical Expenses
Most individuals realize that costs associated with prescription medicines, prescription lenses, and dental expenses are all valid. In our experience, there are many aspects of medical expenses that individuals may not be aware of. For example, medical expenses paid outside Canada can be claimed. The following are some insights that may help reduce the burden of medical expenses.
How it works (2016 taxes)
Medical expenses paid in any 12-month period ending in 2016 can be claimed
Example
January 2016 to Dec 2016 or June 2015 to June 2016 (Expenses from July to December 2016 would be claimed in 2017 return).
Medical expenses are reduced by 3% of income up to $2237.00
Example
An individual’s Net Income is $10,000 they will get a benefit from medical expenses above $300.00 ($10,000 x 3%)
An individual’s Net Income is $100,000 they will get a benefit from medical expense above $2237.00 (the maximum threshold)
Dependents
Medical expenses for self, a spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children born in 1999 or later can be combined and claimed together.
Example
Medical Expenses = $1000 (Dad) + $500 (Mom) + $500 (Daughter) = $2000
Dad’s Net Income = $50,000
Dad will get a tax credit for medical expenses above $1500 ($50,000 x 3%) so in this case $500 ($2000 – $1500 = $500)
**Note, it is best for the lower income individual to make the claim, as 3% of lower income will maximize your claim**
Other Dependents
You may also claim medical expenses for the child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, niece or nephew of yourself, spouse or common-law partner given you paid for them and that person was dependent on you for support.
Example
Grandfather (could also be any of the above)
Medical Expenses = $1000 (Grandfather)
Income of person making claim = $50,000
Grandfathers Net Income = $10,000
Claimant will get a tax credit for medical expenses above $300 (3% of Grandfathers Net Income) so in this case $700 ($1000 – $300 = $700).
**Note you use 3% of the other dependent’s income**
Please note that many items can only be claimed by individuals with a severe chronic ailment, disease, or disorder and a prescription is needed in most but not all cases. You are advised to consult with the CRA and your medical practitioner to confirm eligibility of expenses.
Individuals may also be able to claim a refundable medical expense supplement (not discussed here).
More information can be found at https://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/medical/