In addition to home environment barriers, resources and funding are a major hurdle to many seniors living on limited fixed income. Many seniors simply are not aware of various programs available to them for dealing with unsupported home environment. At Stay Able, as part of our Home Modification Services, we are an experienced facilitator of various programs and credits to help with the funding of home modifications for safe and independent living. These programs and credit include:

1. BC Housing’s Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI)

The Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI) program provides financial assistance to help eligible seniors and people with disabilities in British Columbia the ability to continue to live in the comfort of their home. As your physical needs change, so too does the need to modify your home environment. Adapting a home improves accessibility and promotes safe and independent living. Even small home adaptations can make a big difference in the lives of people who wish to remain in their homes longer. If you or a member of your family, is having difficulty performing activities of daily living, the HAFI program may be able to help.

2. B.C. Seniors' Home Renovation Tax Credit

The B.C. seniors home renovation tax credit assists individuals 65 and over with the cost of certain permanent home renovations to improve accessibility or help a senior be more functional and mobile at home. You’re eligible to claim the credit for the year if on the last day of the tax year you’re:

  • a resident of B.C., and
  • a senior or a family member living with a senior.

Please contact Stay Able for more information on the program.

The renovation must be to your principal residence, which is the home you primarily live in (including a non-seasonal mobile home).  The credit can be shared between eligible residents of the home to a maximum amount of the credit. The maximum amount of the credit is $1,000 per tax year and is calculated as 10% of the qualifying renovation expense (maximum $10,000 in expenses). The credit is a refundable tax credit, which means if the credit is higher than the taxes you owe, you’ll receive the difference as a refund.