Adult Financial Literacy Guide | Page 6

Living in Retirement Income tax It is important to file an income tax return each year even if you have little or not income. Filing an income tax return can give you access to government benefits and credits, and programs that can put money in your pocket. There are some great ways that you can save on your taxes by knowing a few of the deductions and credits that are available. A tax deduction is a cost that reduces your taxable income. For example, if your income is $50,000 and you have a tax deduction for $10,000, then your taxable income is now $40,000. A tax credit is different in that it is a specific amount of money that is deducted from the amount of tax you owe – not from the amount of income you earn. Some possible tax credits for seniors are:  Age amount  Pension income amount  Medical expenses  Disability tax credit  Family caregiver amount Some Reasons to File Your Income Tax Here are some examples of benefits you may be eligible for if you file an income tax return:  GST/HST credit payments  The Old Age Security, Guaranteed Income Supplement, Allowance, or Allowance for the Survivor  FreeImages.com Content License-Ivan Vicencio Provincial Medical Premium Assistance Program 6