Essential Tax Credits for Seniors in Québec

Mark Virgil Lofranco • 5 October 2024

Enjoying your golden years in Quebec comes with some financial perks! If you're 60 or older and a Quebec resident, you might be eligible for several provincial tax credits specifically for seniors. These benefits can significantly impact your tax return and overall financial well-being. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the tax credits available, along with how to qualify and apply.

Available Tax Credits for Seniors in Quebec


1. Solidarity Tax Credit
A refundable tax credit that includes:

  • GST Credit: Offset for the federal Goods and Services Tax.
  • QST Credit: Offset for the Québec Sales Tax.
  • Property Tax Refund: Helps cover high property taxes.
  • Northern Villages Credit: Compensates for the higher cost of living in 14 northern villages.

2. Senior Assistance Tax Credit

  • $4,000 if both you and your spouse are 70 or older.
  • $2,000 if only one of you is 70 or older or if you’re single.
  • Reduced by 5.16% of income over certain thresholds.

3. Age Amount Credit
For Quebecers 65 or older, reducing taxable income. Both spouses can claim this non-refundable credit.

4. Amount for Retirement Income
Claimable by seniors with eligible pensions. Note: OAS and CPP are not included.

5. Career Extension Credit
For seniors 60 and older, providing a credit for certain work income. Maximum credit is $1,400 for ages 60-64, and $1,450 for 65 and older.

6. Home-Support Services Credit
Available for seniors 70 and older to help with costs of home-support services. Claimed on Schedule J of the TP-1 tax form.

7. Independent Living Credit
For seniors making home improvements or residing in functional rehabilitation units. Claimed on line 462 of the Quebec return TP-1.

8. Medical Expenses Credit
A non-refundable credit for medical expenses exceeding 3% of family income. Additional refundable credit may apply based on expenses.

9. Income Tax Deductions on QPP Benefits


Request monthly deductions on Quebec Pension Plan benefits to avoid a large tax bill. Contact the Régie des rentes du Québec for details.


Filing Your Tax Return


This guide covers just some of the credits you can claim. For a comprehensive list, including caregiver credits and grants to offset municipal tax increases, refer to line 462 of your Quebec income tax return TP-1. Remember, you can aggregate multiple credits and total them on this line to maximize your benefits.


Key Takeaways



  • Solidarity Tax Credit: Includes GST and QST credits, property tax refunds, and assistance for northern village residents.
  • Senior Assistance Tax Credit: Provides up to $4,000 based on age and family income.
  • Age Amount Credit: Reduces income tax for those 65 or older.
  • Career Extension Credit: Available for work income for seniors 60 and older.
  • Home-Support Services Credit: Helps seniors 70 and older with home-support costs.
  • Independent Living Credit: For home improvements to aid seniors in independent living.
  • Medical Expenses Credit: Non-refundable credit for medical expenses exceeding a certain percentage of family income.
  • QPP Benefits Deduction: Income tax deduction on Quebec Pension Plan benefits.

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