Seniors Eligible For Home Reno Credit

By Elliot | March 8, 2016

Your next renovation could qualify for money back if you are 65 years or older, or live with someone who is. The Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit is designed to help seniors with the costs of improving safety and accessibility in the home.

If you qualify, you can claim up to $10,000 worth of eligible home improvements on your next tax return. The amount of money you get back for these expenses is calculated as 15 per cent of the eligible expenses you claim. For example, if you spend and then claim $10,000 worth of eligible expenses, you could get $1,500 back.

Your income doesn’t matter; seniors and their family members at all income levels are eligible. Some examples of eligible expenses include:

  • certain renovations to permit a first-floor occupancy or secondary suite for a senior
  • grab bars and related reinforcements around the toilet, tub and shower
  • handrails in corridors
  • wheelchair ramps, stair/wheelchair lifts and elevators
  • walk-in bathtubs
  • wheel-in showers
  • comfort height toilets
  • widening passage doors
  • lowering existing counters/cupboards
  • installing adjustable counters/cupboards
  • light switches and electrical outlets placed in accessible locations
  • door locks that are easy to operate
  • lever handles on doors and taps, instead of knobs
  • pull-out shelves under counter to enable work from a seated position
  • non-slip flooring
  • a hand-held shower on an adjustable rod or high-low mounting brackets
  • additional light fixtures throughout the home and exterior entrances
  • swing clear hinges on doors to widen doorways
  • creation of knee space under the basin to enable use from a seated position (and insulation of any hot-water pipes)
  • relocation of tap to front or side for easier access
  • hands-free taps
  • motion-activated lighting
  • touch-and-release drawers and cupboards
  • automatic garage door openers

For more information on how seniors can save on home renovations, visit the Ontario government website at https://www.ontario.ca/page/healthy-homes-renovation-tax-credit

Courtesy: Homeservice Club

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