Braille Printers, Synthetic Speech Systems, Large Print-on-Screen Devices
Assistive output devices for patients who are blind, including Braille embossers, synthetic speech systems, and large print-on-screen devices
Are Braille printers, synthetic speech systems, and large print-on-screen devices CRA eligible in Canada?
Yes, with a prescription. These assistive devices are eligible medical expenses under the CRA's Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) when prescribed by a medical practitioner. The CRA explicitly includes devices or equipment exclusively designed to enable a patient who is blind to operate a computer — such as synthetic speech systems, Braille printers, and large print-on-screen devices — under paragraph 5700(o) of the Income Tax Regulations, as described in 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 device or equipment exclusively designed to enable a patient who is blind to operate a computer (paragraph 5700(o)), including:
- Synthetic speech systems
- Braille printers (embossers)
- Large print-on-screen devices
- An optical scanner or similar device designed to be used by a patient who is blind to read print (paragraph 5700(l))
- A device or software designed to enable a patient who is blind or has a severe learning disability to read print (paragraph 5700(l.1))
- Rental charges for qualifying devices
- Reasonable servicing and repair costs (per Folio S1-F1-C1, paragraph 1.121)
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 synthetic speech system through my HSA?
Yes. Synthetic speech systems prescribed for a patient who is blind qualify under paragraph 5700(o) and can be reimbursed through your HSA.
Does screen-reading software qualify?
Software designed to enable a patient who is blind or has a severe learning disability to read print may qualify under paragraph 5700(l.1) of the Regulations, with a prescription.
Source
Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Devices and equipment prescribed by regulation".
This information is sourced from the Canada Revenue Agency's official Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) reference guide (lines 33099 and 33199). This is not tax advice. For the most current rulings, consult the CRA directly or speak with a qualified tax professional.
Based on CRA data last updated 2026-01-20. Page last reviewed 2026-03-20.