Financial assistance in Ontario
Visavie supports seniors and their families, find the right fit in a private seniors’ residence – whether for an urgent move, temporary accommodation, or a new place to call home.
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At Visavie, we believe that every senior deserves to enjoy their retirement with dignity. To ease the financial burden on seniors and promote their well-being, several government grants are available. Discover the main financial assistance programs that can improve your daily life, whether you live at home or in a senior living facility.
The main objectives of government subsidies
These grants, provided by the federal and provincial governments, are designed to help seniors:
- Access home care or care in a residential facility.
- Manage housing costs.
- Maintain independence.
- Enjoy enriching activities.
These programs are designed to help you live a peaceful life while focusing on your health and personal goals.
Income Support and Provincial Credits
Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) – Energy, Property Tax, and Sales Tax Credits for Seniors
The Trillium Benefit combines three provincial credits related to living expenses: energy, property tax, and sales tax. For seniors in Ontario planning to move, these monthly payments can help stabilize their budget and ease financial pressure. File your income tax return and complete Form ON-BEN. The amounts are recalculated each year.
Ontario Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS) – Monthly Benefit for Low-Income Seniors
The Ontario Guaranteed Annual Income Program (OGAI) is a monthly, tax-free payment for low-income seniors in Ontario. It is added to the Old-Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), increasing the disposable income available to pay for housing or a retirement home. No separate application is required if you are already receiving OAS and GIS. File your tax return every year.
Care Expenses and Health Programs
Ontario Seniors Care at Home Tax Credit – Up to $1,500 Refund
This refundable tax credit helps Ontario seniors aged 70 or older cover eligible medical expenses related to home care. This is helpful before or after moving into a residence, when temporary expenses are added to your budget. Keep your receipts and check your eligibility on the official website.
Ontario Drug Benefit Program (ODB) – Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors 65+
The Ontario Drug Benefit Program (ODBP) covers most of the cost of many prescription drugs for people aged 65 and older in Ontario. When moving into a retirement home, medication often becomes a significant expense, and this program can help reduce monthly costs. The deductible and copayment may vary depending on income.
Support for family caregivers
Canada Caregiver Credit – Federal Tax Credit for Caregivers in Ontario
The Canadian Caregiver Credit is a federal tax credit that may apply when a person cares for an eligible dependent relative. For a family in Ontario caring for a parent with dementia in terms of financial independence, this credit can reduce taxes and help offset the indirect costs associated with moving into a care facility. Eligibility depends on the relationship and the net income of the person receiving assistance.
Employment Insurance Caregiving Benefits – Paid Leave to Support a Senior in Ontario
These benefits can help replace some of your income if you need to take time off work to care for someone who is seriously ill or at the end of life. When moving into a care facility, they are helpful when the situation is changing rapidly and the family has to handle paperwork, appointments, and the logistics of the transition.
Additional Benefits
Medical Expense Deduction – Eligible Expenses in a Seniors’ Residence (Ontario)
Certain expenses related to in-facility care or services may be eligible as medical expenses on your federal tax return. This may include personal care services, certain nursing care, or other specific services. Ask for a breakdown of the services billed, keep detailed invoices, and retain any required documentation.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC) – Severe Impairment and Loss of Autonomy (Ontario)
The Tax Credit for People with Disabilities (CIPH) may apply to individuals with a severe and long-term disability, as confirmed by a healthcare professional and approved by the CRA. It improves the household’s tax situation and facilitates access to other measures, which can sometimes help fund services, equipment, or a move into a residential facility.
Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program – Free Dental Care for Low-Income Seniors
This program provides free routine dental care to certain individuals aged 65 or older in Ontario, based on income and the absence of other coverage. Oral health affects diet and quality of life, and costs can rise when there is a change in living situation.
Canadian Dental Care Plan – Federal Dental Coverage for Seniors in Ontario
The Canada Dental Plan helps cover part of the cost of dental care for eligible individuals, based on income and the absence of private coverage. In Ontario, it can supplement the provincial dental program. For seniors, it provides significant assistance in covering unexpected expenses that arise when their independence declines or they move to a new living situation.
Additional resources for seniors and their loved ones
In addition to grants and tax credits, support services are available for family caregivers, including federal and provincial measures designed to assist them.
If you or a loved one aren't ready to move into a retirement community yet, our sister company, Amika, offers home care services. These personalized services enable seniors to remain in their own homes while receiving the assistance they need to maintain their independence and quality of life.
At Visavie, we are here for you 7 days a week!
We assist seniors and their families in finding the perfect private residence, whether for an urgent move, temporary housing, or a new living environment. We guide you through every step of the process to help you make the best choice, at no cost for the services we provide.