**** FINANCE/TREASURY BOARD Release
Tax Credit Changes for Volunteer Firefighters Extended
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The Province will ensure all volunteer firefighters who responded to at least 20 per cent of emergency calls in 2021 will be eligible for a $500 refundable tax credit.
The government is amending regulations to the Volunteer Firefighters and Ground Search and Rescue Tax Credit to waive the requirement for volunteer firefighters to attend 20 per cent of meetings and training sessions in person.
“The pandemic has made it challenging to maintain regular schedules but that has not altered the ongoing commitment of volunteer firefighters and search and rescue teams to keep Nova Scotians safe,” said Allan MacMaster, Minister of Finance and Treasury Board. “We want to ensure volunteer firefighters are still able to qualify for this tax credit that recognizes their dedication to helping protect their communities.”
The requirement did not apply to ground search and rescue workers, who will continue to be eligible for the credit as usual. The change now applies for the 2020 and 2021 tax years.
Quick Facts:
— the Province administers a refundable personal income tax credit to volunteer firefighters and search and rescue personnel in recognition of their community service
— this $500 credit may be claimed by an individual on their 2021 tax return
— an estimated 7,400 volunteers in the province benefit from the credit each year
Additional Resources:
More information on the tax credit is available at: https://www.novascotia.ca/finance/en/home/taxation/tax101/personalincometax/volunteerfirefighterstaxcredit.aspx
