Press Release
Ontario has taken an important step towards creating a new, permanent Children’s Activity Tax Credit.
The province introduced legislation Monday that would, if passed, establish the new tax credit, which would help parents with the cost of enrolling their children in activities that encourage them to be healthy and active.
Under the proposed legislation, parents and guardians would be able to claim up to $500 of eligible expenses per child.
They would receive a refundable tax credit worth up to $50 per child under 16 years of age, or up to $100 for a child with a disability under age 18.
Unlike the federal program, Ontario’s tax credit would be fully refundable to benefit all families, including those with low incomes.
It also would apply to a wide range of activities, including sports, arts, and other cultural activities.
“Part of our ‘Open Ontario’ plan is about helping kids reach their full potential,” said Finance minister Dwight Duncan.
“We’re proposing to put more money back into the pockets of moms and dads to help them provide their children with the kinds of activities that interest them most.
“It’s the right thing to do for our kids, our economy, and our communities,” Duncan stressed.
“Parks and Recreation Ontario is pleased that the McGuinty government is taking steps to encourage Ontarians to enroll their children in sport and recreation activities,” said organization president Liz Weaver.
“Children that participate in good quality sport and recreation programs are healthier, do better at school, have higher self-esteem, and are more likely to be active throughout their lives,” she noted.
“By making this new tax credit refundable and retroactive, and by expanding the range of recreation programs that are eligible, more Ontarians will benefit,” Weaver added.
If passed, the Children’s Activity Tax Credit would be the only such tax credit in Canada provided for a comprehensive range of children’s activities.
This tax credit would apply to any eligible expenses incurred on or after Jan. 1, 2010.
