Principal Issues: general explanation of the law regarding this refundable tax credit. Taxpayer would like the law changed so that individuals who are not in receipt of employment income or self-employment income would qualify for this credit.
Position: Referral to Department of Finance regarding taxpayer's request that the law be changed.
Reasons: N/A
August 31, 2010
XXXXXXXXXX
Dear XXXXXXXXXX :
The office of your member of Parliament, XXXXXXXXXX , forwarded to me a copy of your correspondence, which I received on July 22, 2010, regarding the refundable medical expense supplement.
An official of the Canada Revenue Agency spoke to you on July 26, 2010, and discussed the criteria for an individual to qualify for this supplement. During the telephone conversation, you indicated that you would like the law changed so that seniors who do not receive employment income or self-employment income could qualify for the supplement. You also indicated that you do not believe that income from registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) and annuities should be considered when calculating eligibility for the Old Age Security supplement.
Your comments suggest amendments to the law, which fall within the responsibility of the Honourable James M. Flaherty, Minister of Finance. I am therefore forwarding a copy of our correspondence to him for consideration.
I appreciate the opportunity to respond to your comments.
Yours sincerely,
Keith Ashfield
Minister of National Revenue
c.c.: XXXXXXXXXX
The Honourable James M. Flaherty, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Finance
House of Commons
Ottawa ON K1A 0A6
G. Moore
(613) 957-2141
2010- 037598