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Are Prescription Glasses Tax Deductible in Canada?

tax deductible

Prescription Glasses Tax-Deductible Canada – Claim Now

Yes. If your glasses are prescribed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist, they qualify as an eligible medical expense under the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC).

You can claim this credit when filing your personal income tax return in Canada.

What makes glasses eligible?

According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA):

  • The glasses must be prescribed
  • The prescription must correct a vision problem
  • You must have a receipt from a licensed provider

Non-prescription eyewear, cosmetic contacts, or over-the-counter readers do not qualify.

You can also claim other vision-related expenses, like:

How to claim prescription glasses on your tax return

Follow these steps:

  1. Choose your 12-month period
    • Must end in the tax year you’re filing
    • You can choose any 12-month period, not just January to December
  2. Calculate all medical expenses
    • Include prescription glasses and any other eligible items
    • Add up everything from that 12-month period
  3. Find your threshold
    • CRA lets you claim expenses that exceed the lesser of:
      • 3% of your net income
      • OR $2,759 (fixed amount for 2024 tax year)
  4. Calculate claimable amount
    • Subtract threshold from total eligible expenses
    • Example: If your expenses = $2,500, and your threshold = $1,500, you can claim $1,000
  5. Report the amount
    • Line 33099: for yourself, your spouse, or your kids under 18
    • Line 33199: for dependents
  6. Keep records
    • Save receipts and a copy of the prescription
    • CRA may ask for proof if you’re audited

Example: Glasses as a medical expense

Anna earns $50,000/year. She spends:

  • $1,800 on prescription glasses
  • $700 on dental care

Her total medical expenses: $2,500

Her threshold: 3% of $50,000 = $1,500

She can claim: $2,500 – $1,500 = $1,000 on her tax return

Tax Refund Examples for Glasses Claims

Person Net Income Threshold Medical Expenses Claimable Amount
Anna $50,000 $1,500 $2,500 $1,000
Ben $100,000 $2,759 $2,000 $0 (under limit)

Tax Claim Mistakes With Glasses to Avoid

  • Claiming non-prescription eyewear: sunglasses without a prescription do not count.
  • Including reimbursed amounts: if insurance or benefits cover the cost, you can’t claim it.
  • Forgetting to combine expenses: you can pool eligible expenses with your spouse for a higher claim.
  • Choosing the wrong person to claim: it may benefit the lower-income spouse to make the claim.

    • Maximize Your Tax Refund With Glasses

    If you’re getting new glasses this year, ask for a detailed receipt. Include:

    • Prescription strength
    • Licensed provider details
    • Separate line items for frames and lenses

    We can help you get started with the right prescription lenses and help you understand how your eyewear choices can benefit you at tax time.

    Have questions? Reach out. We’re here to help you see clearly—and save smart.

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