Filing income taxes can be confusing, particularly when trying to figure out deductions, credits, and expenses after a brain injury in your household. Here is a brief overview of tax information and resources from the Government of Canada that can help you during tax season.
How to complete and pay your taxes
You can fill out your taxes yourself, or you can hire an accountant.
If you do choose to complete and file your taxes on your own, there are a few different ways to file your tax returns. The CRA also has a variety of in-person and online payment options for income taxes.
Deductions and credits
If the person with a brain injury lives with you, they may be eligible for certain deductions and credits on your joint taxes. For a complete list of disability deductions and credit, visit the Government of Canada website.
- Disability supports deduction
- Adaptive devices and aids like talking textbooks, job coaching services, and Braille note takers are eligible expenses that you may be able to claim as part of the disability supports deduction for the person with a brain injury. These expenses must have been incurred as a result of the person being employed or carrying on a business, conducting research based on a grant, or attending an educational institution.
- Disability amount for self
- This must be claimed by the person with a brain injury if they are eligible for the disability tax credit.
- Home accessibility expenses
- If you have renovated your home to make it more accessible for your partner or dependent, you may be eligible to claim home accessibility expenses.
These are just a few deductions and expenses that may be applicable come tax time. A full list of available deductions, credits, and expenses can be found on the Government of Canada’s website.
Tax-related services for people with brain injury
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has a variety of accessible services if the person with a brain injury is filing separately. If they are visually impaired, the CRA offers publications and forms in alternative formats—such as Braille, large print, e-text, and MP3 audio. If they have a hearing or speech impairment, they can use teletypewriter services. Or, with the written permission of the person with a brain injury, the CRA will speak to an operator-assisted relay service or arrange to have a sign language interpreter available at a meeting.
If a person needs help filing their income tax and benefit return and has a modest income with a simple tax situation, contact the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program. This program works with community organizations to run volunteer tax clinics across the country.
Additional resources
Financial assistance
There are financial assistance programs that a person may be eligible for after their brain injury.
Tips on managing money
It’s important to understand what money you have, how to manage spending and what savings options are available. Learn more about managing money.
