Return to PST
You are here:
Home
/
Managing Your Household
/
/
Seniors
Want Bigger Text? A A

Seniors

 

Seniors often have a different set of needs than other British Columbians. In this section is the information seniors need to know about tax credits, health and well being expenses and exemptions. There is also a listing of other programs that may be of interest to seniors.

Health and Basic Necessities

The HST is not charged on:

  • Basic groceries
  • Prescription drugs
  • Most health, medical and dental services (except for cosmetic procedures)
  • Certain medical devices like hearing aids, prescription eyewear, canes, wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
  • Public transportation

There is also no increase in tax for gas and diesel to fill up your car or on energy to heat and light your home.

Tax Credits

Some seniors are eligible for federal and provincial tax credits:

  • Those with low and modest incomes receive a GST credit of up to $381 annually
  • The new B.C. HST credit provides an additional $230 annually
  • 1.1 million British Columbians, including 220,000 seniors, get quarterly B.C. HST Credit payments
  • Low income British Columbians also receive $105 per adult annually through the Low Income Climate Action Tax Credit In July, 2011 the amount will increase to $115.50 per adult.

That’s up to $716 every year. To calculate your credits the Canada Revenue Agency has a calculator.

Other Day to Day Expenses

Many day to day items stay the same, either no tax or the same tax rate you paid before HST:

  • Household goods like linens, cleaning supplies or tools
  • Furniture, appliances and electronics like televisions
  • Insurance premiums
  • Resale housing
  • Most financial services
  • legal aid services

More details on rebates or costs of buying goods.

Other Tax Measures

As a senior, you may be eligible for additional tax measures to help reduce the burden on your household. You may be interested in learning more about some of the programs listed below.