What tax deductions am I eligible for as a Canadian student?

Canadian students can benefit from various tax deductions and credits, including the tuition tax credit, interest on student loans, moving expenses, child care expenses, GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, and the Lifelong Learning Plan. Keeping track of expenses and relevant documents is essential for maximizing these benefits.

3 min read
Written by Peyton Bieda on August 20, 2024

As a Canadian student, navigating the world of taxes can be daunting, but understanding the deductions and credits available to you can make a significant difference in your financial situation. Here’s a helpful guide to the main tax deductions you may be eligible for as a student in Canada.

Key Tax Deductions and Credits for Canadian Students

1. Tuition Tax Credit

One of the most significant deductions available to students is the tuition tax credit. If you attended a recognized post-secondary institution, you can claim this credit for tuition fees paid. This includes fees for certain occupational skills courses that might not be at the post-secondary level.

If your tuition fees exceed your tax owed, you can carry forward the unused portion to future years or transfer it to a spouse, parent, or grandparent to help reduce their taxable income¹ ².

2. Interest on Student Loans

You can claim a deduction for the interest paid on your student loans. This applies to loans received under the Canada Student Loans Act or similar provincial laws. You can claim interest paid in the current year and any unpaid interest from the previous five years that you haven’t claimed yet² ⁶.

3. Moving Expenses

If you moved to attend school, you might be able to deduct your moving expenses. This applies if your new home is at least 40 kilometers closer to your school. You can only deduct these expenses from the income you earn while studying, including scholarships and grants² ⁶ ⁷.

4. Child Care Expenses

If you have children and pay for their care while you study or work, you can deduct these costs. This deduction helps alleviate some of the financial burdens of balancing education and parenting⁶.

5. Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) Credit

As a student, you may also be eligible for the GST/HST credit, which provides tax relief to low- and modest-income individuals and families. This is a quarterly payment that can help offset the GST/HST you pay on everyday purchases³ ⁶.

6. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

If you have children, you might qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, which is a tax-free monthly payment to help with the cost of raising children. Eligibility depends on your income and family situation³ ⁶.

7. Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP)

If you’re looking to further your education, the Lifelong Learning Plan allows you to withdraw funds from your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to finance your training or education. This can be a valuable resource if you plan to continue your studies⁵.

Conclusion

Filing your taxes as a student is not just a requirement; it can also unlock various benefits that help you manage your finances better. Make sure to keep track of your expenses and any relevant documents to maximize your deductions. For more detailed information, refer to the Canada Revenue Agency’s resources on student taxes, including their guide specifically for students, which provides comprehensive insights into filing your return and claiming deductions¹ ⁵.

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