This bill changes the Income Tax Act to give bigger tax credits to volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers. The amount of the tax credit increases from $6,000 to $10,000. The bill also updates the definition of the kind of volunteer work that qualifies. It applies to work done starting in 2026 and later years.
If you are a volunteer firefighter or involved in search and rescue work, you may be able to get a bigger tax credit when you pay your taxes. The credit can now be up to $10,000, which could reduce your taxes more than before. To qualify, your work must meet the new rules set by the bill. The change takes effect for work done from 2026 onward.
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Supporters say this bill helps volunteer firefighters and search and rescue volunteers by offering bigger tax benefits. The increased credit encourages more people to volunteer in these roles, which can strengthen community safety. Since the credit increases from $6,000 to $10,000, volunteers could save more money on taxes. The bill also clarifies what counts as eligible volunteer work, making it easier for volunteers to access the credit.
Critics argue that increasing the tax credit could cost the government more money, which means less money for other public services. They also note that the bill’s impact depends on how many volunteers take advantage of the bigger credit. Some believe the government should focus on other ways to support volunteer services, such as funding or training, rather than tax credits. There is no clear estimate of the total cost or savings from this change.