Are Lift Recliner Chairs Tax Deductible in Canada?

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For individuals with mobility challenges, a lift chair can be a life-changing investment. These chairs offer a safe and effortless way to transition from sitting to standing, reducing strain and increasing independence. However, with prices ranging from $800 to over $3,000, many Canadians wonder whether the cost of a lift chair is tax deductible.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recognizes certain medical expenses as eligible for tax relief, and under the right conditions, a lift chair may qualify. To benefit from a tax exemption or refund, you must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the government.

This article will explain the conditions under which lift chairs are tax deductible in Canada, the process for claiming a tax break, and key financial considerations when purchasing one.

Key Takeaways:

• Lift chairs can be tax deductible in Canada if they meet the CRA’s medical expense criteria.
• To qualify for a tax deduction, the chair must be specially designed for individuals with a disability and prescribed by a recognized medical professional.
• If eligible, buyers may receive a sales tax exemption at the time of purchase or claim the cost of the lift chair as a medical expense on their income tax return.
• Lift chairs vary in price from $800 to over $3,000, with La-Z-Boy models typically costing between $1,800 and $3,000 or more.
• Financing options are available at La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston through Flexiti Financing, allowing customers to pay for their lift chair over time.

In This Article…

1. Are Lift Chairs Tax Deductible in Canada?
2. How to Claim a Tax Break On Your Lift Chair
3. Cost of a Lift Recliner in Canada

Are Lift Chairs Tax Deductible in Canada?

Yes, lift recliner chairs are tax-deductible. With this being said, there are specific criteria outlined by the Canadian government and the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) in order to qualify for a tax deduction. 

Eligibility Criteria for Tax Deduction

For a lift chair to qualify as a medical expense deduction, it must meet three key requirements:

1. The Lift Chair Must Function as a Chair
   The CRA defines a chair as a seat that includes a base, sitting surface, and backrest. A lift chair qualifies under this definition, provided it is designed for individual use and meets the structural requirements of a standard chair.
2. The Lift Chair Must Be Specially Designed for a Person with a Disability
   To be considered a medical device, the chair must include design features that directly assist with mobility. This means it must have a lifting mechanism that raises and tilts the seat to help the user transition to a standing position. The chair must also have a stable base that prevents tipping and ensures safe operation.
3. A Written Prescription from a Recognized Medical Professional
   The purchase must be supported by a written prescription from a doctor, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist. The prescription should specify that the chair is necessary to assist with mobility limitations. It must also include the patient’s name, the prescribing professional’s signature, and confirmation of the individual’s medical condition.

How to Claim a Tax Break On a Lift Chair

If a lift chair meets CRA requirements, there are two ways to receive a tax benefit:

Sales Tax Exemption

At the time of purchase, customers who provide a valid medical prescription may be exempt from paying GST/HST on their lift chair.

If a prescription is not available at the time of purchase, some retailers, including La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston, allow customers to return within four months with the necessary documentation to receive a sales tax refund.

Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) on Income Tax Return

The cost of a lift chair may also be claimed as a medical expense on an individual’s income tax return. If eligible, this deduction reduces the amount of taxable income, potentially leading to a refund or a lower overall tax bill. The exact refund amount varies depending on the individual’s income level and province of residence.

To claim this deduction, individuals must keep all receipts and the original prescription as proof of eligibility when filing their tax return. Consulting with a tax professional or reviewing the CRA’s list of eligible medical expenses can help ensure the claim is processed correctly.

Cost of Lift Recliner Chairs in Canada

What’s Next?

If you or a loved one is considering purchasing a lift chair, understanding the tax benefits and financial options available can help make the decision easier. Since lift chairs are recognized as medical mobility devices, they may qualify for tax deductions or sales tax exemptions, potentially reducing the overall cost.

So what is holding you back from effortless comfort and relaxation? Start shopping for a lift recliner chair today.

When beginning the hunt for the perfect chair, it can be helpful to see what other La-Z-Boy clients have purchased and enjoyed. Check out the Top 5 Best Selling Lift Chairs at La-Z-Boy. 

When you are ready, we welcome you to visit a local Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston showroom to benefit from the expertise of our consultants and take the sit test.

If you’re interested in learning more about our lift chairs, take a look at our comprehensive Lift Chair Buyer’s Guide.

Related Links:

La-Z-Boy Lift Chair Recliner Costs

Are Recliners Bad for Your Back? 

In-Depth Review of the Pinnacle Power Lift Recliner