Mastectomy bras?

Tax Topics
1

I have a client who had cancer and requires a prosthesis for her mastectomy. However, regular bras don’t work, so she had to purchase what are called mastectomy bras, which are considerably more costly than standard bras. I can’t find if these bras are considered a medical expense or not. Does anyone know?

2

Yes, mastectomy bras can generally be claimed as medical expenses on your Canadian income tax return. These are considered tax-deductible medical expenses when linked to surgery or prosthesis, and can be claimed on line 33099 or 33199 to reduce taxes owing. [1, 2]

Key Details for Claiming Mastectomy Bras:

  • Documentation: You must have a doctor’s prescription for the mastectomy bra or post-surgical garment.

  • Eligible Amount: Only claim the portion of the cost not reimbursed by private insurance or provincial health plans.

  • Provincial Support: In addition to tax deductions, some provinces (like Manitoba and Nova Scotia) offer direct funding for mastectomy bras.

  • Receipts: Retain detailed receipts listing the supplier, product name, and medical purpose. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

For more specific information on how to claim and what is covered, you can refer to the Canadian Cancer Society website. [1]

3

Regurgitating an AI response is not a good idea, because it can often be wrong. In this case, it isn’t, but trusting AI is hazardous.

4

I read it myself before I posted. AI can be wrong but not always. in the past you search internet and now AI is the alternative. You have to learn to live with it.

5

The point is, the person asking the question can just search the Internet. So posting search results isn’t meaningful.

6

I once asked AI a question and it gave me an answer from an old outdated guide. When I pointed that out it still gave me the wrong answer afterwards.

This is why I always look at the references.

I looked at the details of the medical expenses one can claim, and couldn’t find it on there. Is there another place that is linked to CRA that shows this is eligible?

7

Apparently the CRA could be in disagreement with AI… :wink: ?

8

Well, that sucks. It does, however, imply in that ruling that if there is a written prescription for them, that they would be deductible. Thanks!

9

*“It does, however, imply in that ruling that if there is a written prescription for them, that they would be deductible.” ??

The Bra/undergarment? What implies that - an AI hallucination?? :thinking:

The TI and the ITA and the Regulations don’t say or imply that regarding a bra.

5700(j) specifically refers to a written prescription (per 118.2(2)(m)) being necessary for the allowance of a "(j) external breast prosthesis that is required because of a mastectomy" (Provided that it meets all the conditions of 118.2(2)(m)))

The TI’s conculding sentance is:
“However, there is no provision that permits the cost of undergarments required to keep a prosthesis in place after a mastectomy to qualify as a medical expense for purposes of the METC under subsection 118.2(2) of the Act.”