What Medical Expenses Can You Actually Claim in Canada?
Tax season can feel like a headache. But here’s the silver lining: many Canadians leave money on the table simply because they don’t know what they can claim—especially when it comes to healthcare. While we often think of Canada’s healthcare system as “free,” that doesn’t mean it covers everything. From dental work to travel expenses for treatment, there are dozens of hidden medical costs you can get money back for.
Here’s a breakdown of medical expenses that are actually tax-deductible in Canada (yes, according to the CRA), and how to make sure you’re not missing out.
How Medical Expense Tax Deductions Work in Canada
Let’s start with the basics:
You can claim eligible medical expenses that you paid during any 12-month period ending in 2024, as long as they weren’t already claimed in your 2023 return.
There are two key lines on your tax return for this:
- Line 33099: For medical expenses, you paid for yourself, your spouse/common-law partner, and dependent children under 18.
- Line 33199: For medical expenses for other dependents (e.g., adult children, parents, grandparents).
You can only claim the portion of expenses not reimbursed by insurance and that exceed the lesser of $2,635 or 3% of your net income.
Full CRA list of eligible expenses: Medical Expenses You Can Claim
Common Medical Expenses That Are Deductible
NOT Covered by Public Healthcare? You Can Still Claim Them:
- Prescription medications (must be prescribed and purchased from a licensed pharmacy)
- Ambulance services
- Dental care (fillings, cleanings, root canals, dentures)
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Fertility treatments (including IVF, sperm/egg storage, and related prescriptions)
- Chiropractic, physiotherapy, occupational therapy (must be from licensed practitioners)
- Hearing aids and batteries
- Mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, or bathroom safety equipment
- Gluten-free food products (must be for celiac disease and prescribed by a doctor)
Overlooked Medical Expenses You Might Be Missing
Travel for Healthcare
If you had to travel at least 40 km one way for medical treatment not available locally, you may be able to claim:
- Public transit fares
- Vehicle expenses (gas, mileage)
- Meals and accommodations (if over 80 km)
Service Animals
The cost of training, buying, and maintaining a guide dog or service animal for a diagnosed medical condition is claimable. This can even include expenses like veterinary care and food for the service animal.
Mental Health Support
Psychologists, social workers, and even online therapy platforms may qualify as deductible if the provider is licensed. Many Canadians are turning to mental health professionals but forget to track receipts for tax season.
Have trouble accessing a provider? Medimap can help you find a mental health clinic near you with real-time availability.
Home Accessibility & Moving Expenses
Renovations to improve mobility/accessibility for a disabled person. These can include things such as lifts, ramps, and grab bars. Alternatively If a patient moves at least 40 km to access necessary care, the moving expenses may be claimed.
Vision Care
You can claim a variety of vision-related medical expenses on your taxes, including eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, and even laser eye surgery. As long as these expenses are medically necessary and prescribed, they’re eligible for deduction under the CRA’s guidelines.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- OTC Medications Don’t Count: Even if recommended by your doctor, over-the-counter items like Advil or vitamins don’t qualify unless specifically prescribed.
- Missed Deadlines: You can claim from any 12-month period ending in 2024—so if you had large expenses last year, make sure they’re within that window.
- Insurance Oversights: Only the out-of-pocket portion is eligible, not what your insurer paid.
Final Tip: Track Everything
Hold onto receipts, prescriptions, referral letters, and transportation logs. If you’re ever audited, the CRA may ask for proof. Using a simple spreadsheet or app can help you stay organized. Also make sure to combine your household’s claims to exceed the minimum threshold more easily.
TL;DR: The Healthcare You Pay For Can Pay You Back
Even in a country with universal healthcare, out-of-pocket medical costs are a reality for millions. But by knowing what counts (and keeping good records), you can ease the financial burden and get the tax return you deserve.
Bookmark this for April — and don’t forget: if you’re ever looking for a walk-in clinic, Medimap’s real-time directory can help you skip the wait and access care fast.
Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice. Always consult with a qualified tax expert or visit Canada.ca for the most up-to-date information.
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