Can seniors claim homestead credit on their tax returns? If so, which ones?

In your case, Gayle, you’re probably wondering about the federal tax credit for seniors, and the provincial tax credit specific to Saskatchewan.

What is the federal home equity tax credit?

You don’t need to be in Saskatchewan to get this tax credit. The federal home accessibility tax credit for qualified repairs applies if you (or certain family members who live with you) are 65 or older 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 disability and apply to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

This may or may not be the case for you, Gayle. For those still learning, know that a proper adjustment should be final and allow:

• a person to access the dwelling or to travel or work within the dwelling;
• or to reduce the risk of injury to the property or access to it.

There is no specific list of eligible expenses, but a non-slip carpet may be justified.

The maximum claim is $20,000 in expenses, and the tax savings, which vary by state, range from 14% to 26%.

What is the medical expense tax credit?

Other expenses may also qualify for the medical expense tax credit, including repair or construction costs that would not normally be expected to increase the home’s value. The cost is usually not covered by a person with normal physical development or who does not have severe disabilities and long-term mobility.

There are other household expenses that may qualify for the medical expense tax credit. Examples include an air conditioner for a person with a serious illness, disease or mental disorder; bathroom accessories for getting in or out of the bath or shower or getting in or out of the toilet; or power chair for use on stairs, including installation. There may be others, but a non-slip carpet will not apply in your situation, Gayle.

What is the Saskatchewan home improvement tax credit?

Your province, Gayle, has reintroduced the home improvement tax credit that was previously available in 2021 and 2022. It applies to the 2025 and 2026 tax years, but expenses between October 1, 2024 and December 31, 2025 can be claimed in 2025. So, your carpet costs can be worth it.