Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the federal government introduced the First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit (HBTC) to help with the purchase of a first home. The cost of this measure is estimated at $30 million in 2008-09, $175 million in 2009-10 and $180 million in 2010-11.

About the Initiative
The HBTC assists first-time homebuyers with the costs associated with the purchase of a home, such as legal fees, disbursements and land transfer taxes, which are a particular burden for first-time homebuyers, who must also save for a down payment.

The $5,000 non-refundable HBTC amount applies to qualifying homes acquired after January 27, 2009, and provides up to $750 in federal tax relief.

A qualifying home is generally considered to be a housing unit located in Canada that the individual or individual's spouse or common-law partner intends to occupy as the principal place of residence no later than one year after its acquisition.

Any unused portion of an individual's HBTC may be claimed by the individual's spouse or common-law partner. When two or more eligible individuals jointly purchase a home, the credit may be shared but the total credit amount claimed cannot exceed $5,000.

How It Works
First-time homebuyers purchasing a home may claim the HBTC on their income tax returns, starting with the 2009 taxation year. Claimants should ensure that documentation supporting the purchase transaction is available if requested by the Canada Revenue Agency. Claimants are also responsible for making sure that all applicable eligibility conditions are met.

Who Is Eligible
First-time homebuyers are eligible. An individual is considered a first-time homebuyer if neither the individual nor the individual's spouse or common-law partner owned and lived in another home in the year of the home purchase or in any of the four preceding calendar years. Special rules apply for the purchase of homes that are more accessible or better suited to the personal needs and care of an individual who is eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. In these situations, the HBTC can be claimed, even if the first-time homebuyer requirement is not met.

How to Find Out More
For more information, please visit the Department of Finance Canada website or the Canada Revenue Agency website.

Initiative Update
Legislation to implement the HBTC received Royal Assent on December 15, 2009.

Canadians who purchased their first home in 2009 can claim the HBTC on their income tax returns for 2009.

More Info:
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/gncy/bdgt/2009/fqhbtc-eng.html