Can You Claim Massage as a Medical Expense on Taxes? Here’s the Truth

Introduction: Turning Wellness Into Tax Savings? Let’s Talk Reality

You’ve likely heard someone say,

“Keep that receipt — you can write off massage on your taxes!”

But… is it true?

The short answer: Sometimes.

While most Canadians rely on insurance to cover massage therapy, some out-of-pocket costs may qualify for tax credits through the CRA’s Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC).

This article breaks down what’s eligible, how to claim it, and how to stay on the CRA’s good side.

💡 Quick Answer: Massage Therapy Is NOT Automatically Tax-Deductible

According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), only treatments from practitioners recognized by your province’s health ministry can be claimed as medical expenses.

So the key question becomes:

Is your Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) recognized in your province?

✅ In Ontario, BC, Newfoundland, and New Brunswick:

Yes — RMT services are eligible if medically required.

🚫 In provinces where massage therapy is not regulated (e.g., Alberta, PEI, Saskatchewan):

Massage therapy does not qualify for the medical tax credit.

✅ 3 Conditions to Claim Massage on Your Taxes

To claim massage therapy as a medical expense, all three of these must be true:

1. The treatment was provided by a qualified RMT in a regulated province
2. You paid out of pocket (not reimbursed by insurance)
3. You have a prescription or referral from a medical doctor or nurse practitioner

Without that referral, the CRA can — and will — reject the expense.

🧾 What Documentation You’ll Need

Make sure you keep a paper trail for your tax return:

💬 Tip: Ask Ruby at insurance.rmtclinic.online if your receipts meet CRA standards.

💰 How Much Can You Get Back?

The Medical Expense Tax Credit lets you claim:

• Any eligible expense exceeding the lesser of 3% of your net income or $2,635 (2024)
• At a 15% federal tax rate (plus possible provincial amounts)

👉 Example:

You paid $1,000 in massage sessions, weren’t reimbursed, and have a doctor’s note. If that exceeds your 3% income threshold, you could receive $150–$200 back at tax time.

❌ What You Can’t Claim

• ❌ Tips or gratuities
• ❌ Gift certificates or prepaid packages
• ❌ Anything reimbursed by insurance
• ❌ Massage without a prescription
• ❌ Spa or wellness treatments for relaxation only

Even if the RMT is legit, the CRA needs medical justification to approve the credit.

📣 Action Steps to Claim RMT on Your 2024 Taxes

1. ✅ Book with a Registered Massage Therapist in a regulated province
2. ✅ Ask your doctor or NP for a dated referral
3. ✅ Save all original receipts (electronic and paper)
4. ✅ Claim under “Line 33099” on your T1 General return
5. ✅ Use CRA’s MyBenefits CRA App to double-check eligibility

🔗 Related Resources

• 🧾 CRA Approved Medical Expenses List →
• 💬 Ask Ruby what qualifies in your province → insurance.rmtclinic.online
• 📍 Find a licensed RMT near you → RMTClinic.net

Author: Henry Tse