Volume control feature (additional)
Additional volume control features for telephones or communication devices prescribed for people with hearing impairments
Are additional volume control features CRA eligible in Canada?
Yes. Additional volume control features — meaning volume amplification beyond standard telephone design — are an eligible medical expense under the METC when prescribed by a medical practitioner for a person with a hearing impairment. Because they are METC eligible, the cost can be reimbursed through a Health Spending Account (HSA).
What Qualifies
- Amplified telephones or telephone handsets with increased volume output prescribed for a person who is deaf or hard of hearing
- Additional handset amplifiers or inline volume boosters prescribed for use with a standard telephone by a person with a hearing impairment
- Any prescribed additional volume control device or feature that compensates for a hearing disability
- Rental charges and operating costs for qualifying volume control devices (per CRA paragraph 1.74)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are additional volume control features CRA eligible?
Yes. CRA lists this as an eligible medical expense with a prescription required, for a person with a hearing impairment.
Can I claim an amplified telephone through my HSA?
Yes, if it has been prescribed for a person with hearing loss.
Source
Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and Income Tax Folio S1-F1-C1, "Artificial limbs, aids and other devices and equipment".
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.