Quick answer: Yes. The Canada Revenue Agency lists products needed because of incontinence as eligible medical expenses, including adult diapers, disposable briefs, catheters and related supplies, when the incontinence is caused by illness, injury or another condition. You claim them as part of the medical expense tax credit on your tax return. Keep every receipt, and check with the Canada Revenue Agency or a tax professional before you file, since tax rules change often.

Disclaimer: The information in this guide is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, tax or financial advice. Program rules and coverage change often, so always confirm details directly with the program, your insurer, or a tax professional, and speak with your doctor, nurse, or continence specialist about your medical needs. We do our best to keep this information accurate and up to date, but we can't guarantee that it is complete or error-free.

Download this guide (PDF)

What can you claim?

Products you need because of incontinence, such as:

• Adult diapers, briefs and protective underwear
• Pads and guards
• Intermittent and external catheters, catheter trays and tubing
• Other incontinence-related products

You can only claim the part you paid yourself, not amounts covered by insurance or a government program.

How do you claim?

1. Save your receipts. ActivKare provides a receipt with every order. Tax Receipts and Deductions
2. Add up eligible expenses for any 12-month period ending in the tax year.
3. Claim them as medical expenses on your federal return (line 33099 for yourself, your spouse and children under 18; line 33199 for other dependants), plus your provincial return.
4. Remember the threshold: you can only claim the amount above the lesser of 3% of your net income or a yearly fixed amount set by the CRA.

What about the Disability Tax Credit?

If your incontinence or the condition behind it severely limits daily activities, you may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. A medical practitioner completes Form T2201. The DTC is a separate credit and can also open the door to other benefits.

Frequently asked questions

Are adult diapers tax deductible in Canada?

They can be claimed as a medical expense when you need them because of an illness, injury or condition.

Do I need a prescription to claim incontinence products?

The CRA doesn't require one for this category, but keep receipts and any medical documentation in case they ask.

Can I claim products I buy for my parent?

Possibly, if they depend on you for support. See the CRA's rules on claiming for dependants.

Are incontinence products taxed in Canada?

Sales tax rules for medical products can change. Your ActivKare receipt shows any tax charged, and the Canada Revenue Agency can confirm the current rules.