If you live or run a business in the Northwest Territories, Yukon, or Nunavut, you may qualify for unique tax credits that can help reduce your tax bill or boost your refund. Here are some of the most common and often missed territory-specific tax credits and programs.
Northern Residents Deductions (All Territories)
If you’ve lived in a prescribed northern zone for at least six months in a row, you may be eligible for:
- A residency deduction of up to $11 per day
- A travel deduction for trips taken for medical or vacation purposes
These deductions reduce your taxable income and can significantly impact your bottom line. Learn more here.
Northwest Territories: Cost of Living Offset (COLO)
A refundable credit for low and modest-income residents to help offset high living costs:
- Up to $416 per adult and $480 per child annually
- Paid quarterly and calculated automatically when you file your taxes
Yukon: Child Benefit
Families with children under 18 may receive up to $78.08 per child per month, included in your Canada Child Benefit with no separate application required.
Nunavut: Child Benefit
A top-up to the Canada Child Benefit for Nunavut families:
- You may receive $29 per child per month, plus an additional amount for working families.
- Benefits are income-tested and included with your monthly federal payments.
Yukon: Small Business Investment Tax Credit
Yukon residents who invest in eligible local businesses may claim a non-refundable credit of up to 25% of their investment:
- Applies to investments made in 2024 and early 2025
- You must be a Yukon resident and file a YBITC certificate with your taxes
Canada Carbon Rebate (Nunavut)
A quarterly rebate to help offset carbon pricing:
- $193 for a single adult
- $386 for a family of four
Accounting & Advisory Support for Northern Canadian Business Owners
KWB Accountants & Advisors works with northern Canadian business owners to help you simplify your accounting, improve your profit, and achieve your goals.
Book an introductory meeting with us to learn more about a KWB client.