Job Hunting in Canada? Can You Claim Those Expenses?

When you’re job hunting, every dollar counts. Naturally, you might wonder—can I claim job search expenses on my Canadian taxes?

For most people, the short answer is no. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) generally does not allow deductions for costs related to:

• Job applications

• Résumé printing

• Travel for interviews

• Professional headshots

Unless… you fit into a very specific category.

Who Can Deduct Job Search Expenses?

You might qualify if:
✔ You’re a commissioned employee (earning commission income, reported on a T4A)
✔ You have a Form T2200 completed by your employer confirming the expenses are required for your role
✔ Your expenses are directly related to earning income from your current job—not for finding a new one

A Silver Lining: Moving Expenses

If your job search leads to a move of 40 km or more for work or school, the CRA may allow you to deduct moving expenses.
These can include:

• Transportation & storage costs

• Temporary living expenses

• Real estate fees

• Utility hookups/disconnections

  
  

💡 Bottom line: While job search expenses usually aren’t deductible, commissioned employees with employer verification—and those relocating for work—may still benefit from tax deductions.