McGuinty Government’s New Tax Credit Keeps Seniors Safer, Reduces Pressures on Hospital and Long-Term Care
The passage of the Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit Act will allow Ontario’s seniors to renovate their homes so they can live in them safely and independently longer. Seniors who own or rent homes, and people who share a home with a senior relative, will be able to receive the new tax credit worth up to $1,500 each year. The credit will make it more affordable to complete home renovations and installations to help seniors stay in their homes more safely and comfortably, and prevent falls and injuries.
The Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit will improve seniors’ quality of life at home and help reduce pressures on more costly hospital and long-term care services.
Helping seniors live independently at home longer supports the McGuinty government’s Seniors Care Strategy and is part of its Action Plan for Health Care to help ensure Ontario’s seniors get the right care, at the right time and in the right place.
QUOTES
“We’re helping seniors with the cost of renovations to help prevent falls and make their homes more accessible to help them to live at home longer and enjoy the quality of life they deserve. This new tax credit will also help achieve the goals of our Action Plan for Health Care by keeping our loved ones out of hospitals and long-term care, and at home, where they want to be.”
— Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long-term Care
“The Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit Act is a practical way to make it safer and easier for Ontarians to age at home. By helping individuals modify their homes to suit their needs, we can ensure that Ontario seniors continue to live independently.”
— Linda Jeffrey, Minister Responsible for Seniors
QUICK FACTS
* Examples of eligible home modifications include stair lifts, walk-in bathtubs and ramps.
* Homeowners should save their receipts for eligible expenses made on or after Oct. 1, 2011.
* Seniors at all income levels can qualify for the tax credit.
* From 2012 onward, the tax credit can be claimed on the Personal Income Tax return for 15 per cent of up to $10,000 in eligible expenses per year.
LEARN MORE
Read about Ontario’s Seniors Care Strategy.
Find out more about Seniors Care options in Ontario.
Take a look at the tax credits and benefits available for seniors.
Learn about Ontario’s Seniors’ Secretariat.
For public inquiries call ServiceOntario, INFOline at 1-866-532-3161 (Toll-free in Ontario only)