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.

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