Walking aids (canes, walkers)
Prescribed canes, walkers, and rollators for people with mobility limitations
Are walking aids, canes, and walkers CRA eligible in Canada?
Yes. Walking aids — including canes, walkers, and rollators — are eligible medical expenses under the METC when prescribed by a medical practitioner. Because they are METC eligible, the cost can be reimbursed through a Health Spending Account (HSA).
What Qualifies
- Standard walking canes prescribed for balance or mobility impairment
- Quad canes or offset canes prescribed for persons with stroke, Parkinson's disease, or other neurological or musculoskeletal conditions
- Standard walkers, wheeled walkers (rollators), and knee walkers prescribed for mobility limitations
- Replacement tips, grips, or wheels for a qualifying prescribed walking aid
What Does Not Qualify
- Hiking poles or trekking sticks used for outdoor recreation
- Decorative walking canes without a functional mobility purpose
Frequently Asked Questions
Are canes and walkers CRA eligible?
Yes. CRA lists walking aids (canes, walkers) as eligible medical expenses with a prescription required.
Can I claim a rollator or wheeled walker through my HSA?
Yes, if it has been prescribed by a medical practitioner for a mobility condition.
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.