If you visit a naturopath regularly, you might wonder: can you claim naturopath on income tax in Canada? The answer is sometimes yes but not always.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) allows you to claim certain medical expenses through the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC). However, the rules can be tricky and not every naturopathic treatment qualifies. This guide explains when you can claim these expenses, what documents you’ll need and which services are not eligible.
Understanding the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC)
The Medical Expense Tax Credit helps Canadians recover a portion of eligible health expenses by reducing their overall taxes owed. You can claim these on your income tax return under:
- Line 33099: for yourself, your spouse, or your dependents under 18.
- Line 33199: for other dependents.
To qualify, your total medical expenses must exceed the lesser of 3% of your net income or the annual CRA threshold (e.g., $2,759 in 2024). Only approved medical services from recognized practitioners are eligible.
Reviewing receipts and documentation is essential when determining if naturopathic expenses can be claimed for tax deductions in Canada
Are Naturopathic Services Eligible for Tax Claims?
When You Can Claim
You can claim naturopathic services when:
- Your naturopath is licensed or registered in your province or territory.
- The service provided is considered a legitimate medical consultation or treatment.
- You have official receipts showing the practitioner’s name, license number and date.
Examples of eligible naturopathic services include:
- Health consultations and diagnostic testing
- IV therapy administration (service fee only)
- Laboratory testing or injections performed by the naturopath
Always ensure your naturopath is recognized as a medical practitioner by your province’s regulatory body. CRA only allows claims for practitioners that are provincially licensed.
When You Cannot Claim
The CRA does not allow claims for:
- Vitamins, herbs or nutritional supplements even if prescribed
- Homeopathic or natural health products sold in the clinic
- IV or injectable substances themselves (only administration fees qualify)
- Services from unlicensed or nonregulated practitioners
In short, you can only claim professional services, not products or supplements.
Provincial Eligibility for Naturopathic Services
The CRA recognizes naturopaths as medical practitioners in some provinces, but not all. Here’s a simplified overview:
Province/Territory | Recognized by CRA? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Ontario | ✅ Yes | Must be licensed under the College of Naturopaths of Ontario |
British Columbia | ✅ Yes | Licensed under BC’s College of Naturopathic Physicians |
Alberta | ✅ Yes | Recognized, but coverage varies |
Manitoba / Saskatchewan | ⚠️ Partial | May depend on practitioner registration |
Atlantic provinces | ❌ Often No | Check CRA’s authorized practitioner list |
If you’d like to explore your options or need documentation for tax purposes, contact Aspire Natural Health today.
Step by Step: How to Claim Naturopath on Your Taxes
Step | What to Do | Details |
|---|---|---|
1 | Confirm your naturopath’s license | Ask for their registration number and regulatory college name |
2 | Get detailed receipts | Include clinic name, date, amount and service type |
3 | Exclude ineligible items | Separate product purchases from service fees |
4 | Calculate your claim | Subtract 3% of your net income (or CRA threshold) from total eligible expenses |
5 | File on your return | Use lines 33099 or 33199 on your CRA return |
6 | Keep records | Store receipts for at least 3 years in case of audit |
Sara’s threshold = 3% of $45,000 = $1,350. Since $1,200 < $1,350, she cannot claim it this year. If her expenses were $2,000, she could claim $650 ($2,000 – $1,350).
Exploring your options and understanding government guidelines is key to knowing if naturopathic services can be claimed on your Canadian income tax return
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming all natural treatments qualify – CRA recognizes only licensed practitioners.
- Mixing products with services – Only professional service fees are valid.
- Not keeping itemized receipts – Missing details can lead to CRA rejection.
- Ignoring provincial differences – What’s eligible in BC may not qualify in PEI.
Advantages of Claiming Naturopathic Services
- Helps offset high health costs
- Encourages preventive care
- Reduces taxable income
- Applies to family and dependents
- Recognizes holistic wellness within the medical system
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Q1. Can I claim my naturopathic supplements?
No. Unless prescribed and dispensed by a pharmacist as a drug, supplements and herbal products are not eligible.
Q2. How do I know if my naturopath qualifies?
Check if they’re licensed under your province’s naturopathic regulatory college and listed on CRA’s recognized practitioner page.
Q3. What if I receive care in another province?
You can claim it if the practitioner is recognized in that province and you meet CRA’s criteria.
Q4. Can I claim expenses from previous years?
Yes. You can claim a 12month period ending in the tax year you file. For deceased individuals, a 24month period may apply.
Q5. Are online naturopath consultations eligible?
Yes, if the provider is licensed and the service is clearly documented with a valid receipt.
Final Thoughts
So can you claim naturopath on income tax Canada? Yes, if your naturopath is licensed and the service is recognized under the CRA’s medical expense tax credit guidelines. Always keep receipts and verify eligibility before filing.
At Aspire Natural Health, we believe wellness should be both accessible and financially sustainable. Our team helps patients achieve holistic health through evidence based naturopathic treatments that prioritize mindbody balance.
