May 17, 2010
Province Announces New Fertility Treatment Tax Credit to Support Manitoba Families: Ministers
– – –Manitoba Recognizes Infertility Awareness Week
A new fertility treatment tax credit will support Manitobans who want to start or grow their family, Health Minister Theresa Oswald and Finance Minister Rosann Wowchuk announced today.
“Many people go through challenges when trying to start their family and the significant cost of fertility treatments is a real financial hurdle,” said Oswald. “This tax credit is an important step for Manitoba families and we are proud to be the first province in western Canada to offer this support.”
The new Fertility Treatment Tax Credit will provide a 40 per cent refundable tax credit on eligible expenses within any tax year of up to $20,000 a year, for a maximum benefit of $8,000. This can be combined with the existing 10.8 per cent provincial medical expenses tax credit for a provincial total tax credit of 50.8 per cent. When combined with existing federal medical-expense credit of 15 per cent, Manitobans could have up to 66 per cent of their fertility treatment expenses reimbursed through the income tax system, which either partner can claim.
“Manitoba is pleased to follow through on this important commitment to families,” said Wowchuk. “We continue to make investments that make our province a more attractive place to live, work and raise a family.”
This credit applies to treatment costs associated with infertility, paid to a recognized clinic or health-care provider in Manitoba and for related prescription drugs. Eligible costs include anything that is claimable as a medical expense under federal income tax rules including:
· in vitro fertilization,
· drug therapies to encourage ovulation, and
· insemination procedures.
“We are very pleased that Manitoba is taking this important step forward,” said Paula Chorney, board member of the Infertility Awareness Association of Canada – Manitoba Chapter. “Anyone who’s struggled with infertility knows the emotional pain and financial toll it can take. This tax credit will support hundreds of Manitobans access the best medical options available and help their dreams become a reality.”
The province estimates it will invest $800,000 annually in the new credit, which will take effect on Oct. 1.
For information on claiming this tax credit through the income tax system, contact the Manitoba Tax Assistance Office at 204-948-2115 or 1-800-782-0771 (toll-free) or by email at TAO@gov.mb.ca.
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