65 and Older? Discover Government Benefits and Tax Credits That Can Help You Save

Why Filing Taxes Matters for Seniors

Filing your taxes isn’t just about paying what you owe—it’s the gateway to accessing most government benefits for seniors in both Canada and the United States.

• In Canada, the CRA and Revenu Québec use your return to calculate your senior benefits in Canada like Old Age Security (OAS), the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and tax credits.

• In the U.S., the IRS uses your return to determine eligibility for Social Security adjustments, Medicare subsidies, and certain credits.

Resources: CRA Benefits Finder | IRS Credits for Seniors

Key Senior Benefits in Canada

1. GST/HST Credit

• Helps offset sales taxes.

• Up to $467 per year for individuals, $612 per year for couples.

• Paid quarterly, tax-free.

2. Age Amount Tax Credit

• Available if you’re 65+.

• Up to $7,898 non-refundable credit.

3. Pension Income Splitting

• Split eligible pension income with your spouse/common-law partner.

• Can significantly reduce your overall tax burden.

4. Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

• Non-refundable tax credit worth $8,870 (2024).

• Can also open eligibility for a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP).

Apply for the Disability Tax Credit

5. Canada Caregiver Credit

• For supporting a spouse, partner, or family member with a disability or illness.

6. Home Accessibility Tax Credit

• Claim up to $20,000 per year for home renovations to improve accessibility (ramps, walk-in tubs, stair lifts).

7. Medical Expense Deduction

• Claim out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions, mobility aids, and even travel for medical appointments.

Ontario-Specific Senior Benefits

Ontario seniors have extra supports beyond federal programs:

Ontario Seniors’ Care at Home Tax Credit

• Refundable tax credit worth up to $1,500 annually.

• Covers homecare services, medical devices, and more.

Ontario Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS)

• Monthly top-up for low-income seniors.

• Provides up to $83 per month in addition to OAS/GIS.

Ontario Seniors Programs & Services Directory

Quebec-Specific Benefits

• Solidarity Tax Credit through Revenu Québec.

• Senior Assistance Tax Credit for those 70+.

Revenu Québec Seniors Benefits

U.S. Benefits for Seniors (65+)

For American readers, there are also robust programs:

• Social Security Retirement Benefits – Monthly income based on work history.

• Medicare – Health coverage for those 65+.

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Additional income for low-income seniors.

• Elderly or Disabled Tax Credit – Reduces federal taxes owed.

• State Property Tax Exemptions – Many states offer property tax relief to seniors.

  BenefitsCheckUp by NCOA

How to Apply and Stay Eligible

• File taxes by April 30 in Canada (June 15 if self-employed, but payments still due April 30).

• File U.S. taxes by April 15 to ensure credits apply.

• Use online portals to manage your benefits:

  • CRA My Account

  • My Service Canada Account

  • IRS Online Services

Where to Get Help

• Canada:

  • CRA: 1-800-959-8281

  • Benefits Helpline: 1-800-387-1193

  • Service Canada: 1-800-277-9914

• Ontario: Call 2-1-1 Ontario for local resources.

• U.S.:

  • Social Security Administration: 1-800-772-1213

  • Medicare: 1-800-633-4227

Takeaway: Filing your taxes each year is the key to unlocking senior benefits in Canada, Ontario-specific supports, and U.S. programs. These credits, supplements, and deductions can help reduce costs, boost retirement income, and support you in aging comfortably and securely.

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