New tax credit for teachers will benefit Canada’s children

The new tax credit for teachers will help offset personal costs

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, P.C., M.P., Minister of National Revenue, and the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, P.C., M.P., Minister of Science, marked the beginning of the back to school season today by visiting École élémentaire Gabrielle-Roy in Toronto to promote the Government of Canada’s new school supply tax credit for teachers and early childhood educators.

Teachers work hard to create positive learning environments for our children and often pay out-of-pocket for classroom supplies.

Introduced in 2016, the Eligible Educator School Supply Tax Credit will help offset these personal costs, allowing those affected to claim a 15% refundable tax credit on up to $1,000 worth of school supplies each year.

Eligible educators, regardless of their income level, who purchase educational materials, will qualify for a refund of up to $150 each year. This new tax measure reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to invest in our educators and bring real change to Canadians.

Quick facts

• A 2010 survey conducted by the Canadian Teachers Federation showed the average Canadian teacher was out of pocket by $453 for expenses on classroom materials or class-related activities.
• The Eligible Educator Tax Credit is expected to cost $55 million from fiscal years 2015-16 to 2017-18.