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The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recognizes hearing impairments as eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) if the hearing loss is severe, prolonged (lasting at least 12 consecutive months), and significantly affects daily life. Hearing impairments include complete deafness or substantial hearing loss that limits the ability to understand spoken words, even with the use of hearing aids.

Common conditions that may qualify include congenital deafness, age-related hearing loss, Ménière’s disease, acoustic neuroma, auditory processing disorder, or hearing loss due to illness, injury, or exposure to loud noise. To be eligible, the individual must be unable to hear and understand speech in quiet environments, despite using assistive devices.

The DTC provides tax relief, access to additional benefits like the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), and potential retroactive tax refunds for up to 10 years. A qualified audiologist or medical practitioner must complete Form T2201 to confirm eligibility.

6 Key Signs of Hearing Impairments

1. Severe Hearing Loss – Difficulty hearing or understanding speech without assistive devices.
2. Reliance on Lip-Reading or Sign Language – Needs visual cues or sign language for communication.
3. Challenges in Noisy Environments – Struggles to distinguish voices or sounds in crowded places.
4. Frequent Miscommunication – Often asks others to repeat themselves or responds inappropriately.
5. Limited Use of Assistive Devices – Hearing aids or cochlear implants provide little or no improvement.
6. Social Isolation or Safety Concerns – Avoids conversations or misses important sounds like alarms or doorbells.

If severe hearing loss is affecting your daily life, you may be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. A healthcare professional can assist in completing the necessary forms to help you access available benefits.