Eligibility + Coverage FAQs

Can I claim private health insurance on my taxes in Canada?

Private health insurance, private health insurance plans or health spending accounts are a business expense and are tax deductible in your business.

Is a health spending account a taxable benefit in Canada?

No.  A health spending account is a tax free benefit in Canada.

What is the limit on flexible medical spending accounts?

There are no hard and fast rules. CRA uses a test of reasonability.  The level of benefit issued should match what would reasonably be offered an employee performing the same duties and level of responsibility.

Are pre existing conditions covered under a PHSP?

If you have pre-existing conditions, Corporate Care is an ideal solution for you (or your employees).  No medical questions or examinations are required to join.  Most medical costs that arise from pre-exisitng conditions are an allowable expense.

What medical expenses are eligible under a PHSP?

Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to:

  • Prescription medication

  • Dental

  • Vision, including prescription glasses and contacts

  • Ambulance services

  • In-Vitro fertility program

  • Walking aids and wheelchairs

For a complete list of eligible expenses.

Who is considered a family member under a PHSP?

Qualified medical expenses may be submitted for

  • Yourself

  • Your spouse or common-law partner

  • Your or your spouse’s (or common-law partner’s) dependent children under the age of 18 (or over the age of 18 if still living with you.)

 You can also claim an amount if each dependent meets all the following conditions. The person must have been:

  • your or your spouse’s (or common-law partner’s child) grandchild, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, niece, or nephew;

  • 18 years of age or older;

  • dependent on you because of an impairment in physical or mental functions; and

  • a resident of Canada at any time in the year. You cannot claim this amount for a person who was only visiting you.

Who is a qualified medical practitioner under a PHSP?

Qualified medical practitioners’ examples include, but are not limited to:

What are common expenses that are NOT covered under a PHSP?

  • Athletic or fitness club fees

  • Any procedures done for purely cosmetic reasons

  • Non-prescription birth control devices

  • Blood pressure monitors

  • Diaper services

  • Health plan premiums paid by an employer and not included in your income

  • Organic food

  • Over the counter medications

  • Personal response systems such as Lifeline or Health Line Services

  • Supplements and vitamins

  • Travel expenses less than 40km