Can seniors claim home renovations on their tax return? If so, which ones?

In your case, Gail, you may be wondering about the federal tax credits for seniors, as well as the provincial tax credits that are specific to Saskatchewan.

What is the Federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit?

You do not need to be in Saskatchewan to take advantage of this tax credit. The federal Home Accessibility Tax Credit for qualified renovations applies if you (or certain household members who live with you) turn 65 at the end of the year, or if you qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). To qualify for a DTC, you must have a severe and long-term physical or mental impairment and apply to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

Gail, this may or may not be true for you. For anyone else reading, please know that a qualified renovation must be durable and allow for:

• The individual enters the residence or moves or functions within the residence;
• or reduce the risk of injury while inside or entering a residence.

There is no specific list of eligible expenses, but non-slip carpeting may be reasonable.

The maximum claim amount is $20,000 in fees, and the tax savings vary by province, ranging from 14% to 26%.

What is the medical expense tax credit?

Certain expenses may also qualify for the medical expense tax credit, including renovation or construction expenses that typically do not increase the value of the home. People with normal physical development or who do not have severe and long-term mobility impairments also generally do not incur these costs.

There are other household expenses that may qualify for the medical expense tax credit. For example, air conditioning for people with serious chronic conditions, illnesses or disorders; bathroom assistance to get in and out of a bath or shower, or to and from the toilet; or electric guide chairs for use in stairs, including installation. There may be other rugs out there, but non-slip rugs generally don’t fit your situation, Gail.

What is the Saskatchewan Home Improvement Tax Credit??

Your province, Gaelic, has reintroduced the home improvement tax credit that was previously available in 2021 and 2022. Expenses for this period can be claimed in 2025.