Braille Printers

Are Braille printers CRA eligible in Canada?

Yes, with a prescription. Braille printers (embossers) are eligible medical expenses under the CRA's Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC). The CRA explicitly includes devices exclusively designed to enable a patient who is blind to operate a computer — including Braille printers — under paragraph 5700(o) of the Income Tax Regulations, as described in Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, paragraph 1.122(s). A prescription from a medical practitioner is required. Because these expenses are METC eligible, they can also be reimbursed through an HSA or PHSP.

What Qualifies

• A Braille printer (embosser) exclusively designed to enable a patient who is blind to operate a computer (paragraph 5700(o))
• Rental charges for a qualifying Braille printer
• Reasonable servicing and repair costs for a qualifying device (per Folio S1-F1-C1, paragraph 1.121)

What Does Not Qualify

• General-purpose printers not exclusively designed for use by a patient who is blind
• Braille printers purchased without a prescription from a medical practitioner

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Braille printers CRA eligible?

Yes, with a prescription. Braille printers are covered under paragraph 5700(o) of the Income Tax Regulations as devices exclusively designed to enable a patient who is blind to operate a computer.

Can I claim a Braille printer through my HSA?

Yes. A Braille printer prescribed for a patient who is blind qualifies under paragraph 5700(o) and can be reimbursed through your HSA.

Source

Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Devices and equipment prescribed by regulation".