Sign Language Interpretation Services
Professional sign language interpretation for a person who has a hearing or speech impairment, eligible without a prescription or certification. Real-time captioning services also qualify under the same provision.
Are sign language interpretation services CRA eligible in Canada?
Yes. Costs paid for sign language interpretation services for a person who has a hearing or speech impairment are eligible under the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) and can be reimbursed through a Health Spending Account (HSA). No prescription or certification is required. Real-time captioning services also qualify under the same provision, paragraph 118.2(2)(l.4).
Under Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1 (sign language services section at #toc23), amounts paid for sign language interpretation services for a person with a hearing or speech impairment are eligible medical expenses. The services must be provided by a person who is in the business of providing such services. This covers professional interpretation services provided to assist communication in medical, educational, workplace, or other settings.
What Qualifies
- Professional ASL (American Sign Language) or LSQ (langue des signes quebecoise) interpretation for a medical appointment, hospital visit, or specialist consultation for a person with a hearing or speech impairment
- Sign language interpretation services at educational settings for a student with a hearing or speech impairment
- Workplace sign language interpretation services for a person who has a hearing or speech impairment
- Interpretation services at legal proceedings or formal events required because of a hearing or speech impairment
- Real-time captioning services for a person with a hearing or speech impairment (also covered under paragraph 118.2(2)(l.4))
Good to Know
- This provision covers both hearing and speech impairments — not just hearing loss
- The provider must be a person who is in the business of providing sign language interpretation or real-time captioning services
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sign language interpretation services CRA eligible?
Yes. The CRA explicitly lists sign language interpretation services as an eligible medical expense for persons with a hearing or speech impairment under paragraph 118.2(2)(l.4). No prescription or written certification is required.
Can I claim sign language interpretation through my HSA?
Yes. Submit the receipt from the interpretation service provider. No prescription or certification is needed.
Source
Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Sign language services".
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.