For most people, the race is on to get you taxes in and filed my April 30th! Here are some things to consider if you’re doing them yourself or if someone else is doing them. Many people forget about what you can actually claim! Check it out.
Medical expenses beyond the obvious
People think only big hospital bills count, but the CRA allows things like dental work, glasses (including prescription sunglasses), therapy, mental health services, travel for medical treatment over 40 km, and even gluten‑free food if you have celiac disease. You can also combine expenses over any 12‑month period ending in the tax year.
Moving expenses
If you moved at least 40 km closer to a new job, school, or business, you may be able to deduct moving costs. This includes travel, temporary lodging, storage, and some home‑selling costs. Many people forget to claim this or don’t keep receipts.
Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
This one is huge and commonly missed. It’s a refundable credit for low‑income workers, including part‑year or fluctuating income earners.
Tuition credits you forgot about
Unused tuition credits don’t disappear. They can be carried forward indefinitely or transferred (up to $5,000) to a parent, spouse, or grandparent.
Student loan interest
You can claim interest paid on federal and provincial student loans, and if you forgot in previous years, you can claim interest from the past five years.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
This applies to more conditions than people realize, including some mental health conditions, diabetes, and ADHD. Many Canadians qualify but never apply.
Home Accessibility Tax Credit
If you or a dependent is 65+ or has a disability, renovations that improve safety or mobility can qualify. Eg. walk‑in showers, grab bars, ramps. This is frequently missed.
Union or professional dues
Often already on your T4, but not always claimed properly.
Employment expenses (including work‑from‑home)
If your employer required you to pay for certain expenses and provided the proper form, things like supplies, a portion of internet or phone bills, and some home office costs may be deductible.
Carry‑forwards and old returns
Unused RRSP room, donations, tuition, and losses can often be carried forward. Also, CRA allows you to amend returns going back up to 10 years if you missed credits or deductions. A lot of people never look back.
