In order to help seniors and those with disabilities stay in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible, BC has a number of programs available. These programs are meant to help with the cost of permanent home renovations aimed at improving accessibility, functionality and mobility. This includes home adaptations like raised toilets, walk-in bathtubs, grab bars, sliding shelves, non-slip flooring, and more. It doesn’t apply to regular home maintenance jobs, like new roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating or cooling systems. You can see the full list of what, and what does not qualify, here.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
  • Home Renovation Tax Credit for Seniors. Must be a resident of BC, over 65 or doing renovations for a relative over 65 who is living with you.
  • Home Renovation Tax Credit for Persons with Disabilities. Available for a person with a disability or a family member living with a person with a disability. Must be able to claim the Disability Tax Credit (Form T2201). If you cannot, it still may be possible to claim it if you have qualifying expenses.
  • Disability Tax Credit T2201.  Those with a disability that limits their ability in daily living may be entitled to receive a DTC certificate. The DTC reduces annual tax payable and may qualify you to other government grants for safe and independent living. You may also qualify for a refund of previously paid taxes while suffering from the disability. 

Claiming these credits is done when  you file your T1 income tax return by filling out Schedule BC(S12). You’ll need to keep supporting documentation, including receipts from suppliers and contractors. Those doing the renovations must have a GST/HST number.

The Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI) program. This program provides financial assistance to help eligible seniors and people with disabilities in British Columbia to continue to live in the comfort of their home. If you or a member of your family is having difficulty performing “activities of daily living” independently and safely – the HAFI program may be able to help. 

The Veterans Independent Program (VIP). This program provides financial assistance to help veterans continue to live safely and independently in the comfort of their home. 

We at Stay Able are experienced facilitators of the above programs and credits that help fund adaptations to create senior friendly homes. For more information on any of these tax credits, please call or email us for free consultation.