Teletypewriters
Teletypewriter (TTY) and telecommunication devices for patients who are deaf or mute
Are teletypewriters CRA eligible in Canada?
Yes. A teletypewriter or similar device, including a telephone ringing indicator, that enables a patient who is deaf or mute to make and receive telephone calls is an eligible medical device under paragraph 5700(k) of the Income Tax Regulations, as confirmed in paragraph 1.122(n) of Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1. A prescription is required. Because a Health Spending Account reimburses CRA-eligible medical expenses, teletypewriters are eligible for HSA reimbursement when prescribed. Rental charges and operating costs are also eligible under paragraph 1.74 of the Folio.
What Qualifies
- TTY (teletypewriter) purchased for a patient who is deaf or mute, with a prescription
- TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf) for home or workplace use, with a prescription
- Telephone ringing indicator that accompanies an eligible teletypewriter
- Rental of a teletypewriter (rental charges and operating costs are eligible)
- Repairs, maintenance, and replacement supplies for a prescribed teletypewriter
Frequently Asked Questions
Are teletypewriters CRA eligible?
Yes. A teletypewriter prescribed for a patient who is deaf or mute is METC eligible under paragraph 5700(k) of the Income Tax Regulations.
Can I claim a teletypewriter through my HSA?
Yes. A prescribed teletypewriter is a CRA-eligible medical expense and is reimbursable through a Health Spending Account.
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.