Government Funding for Fertility in Manitoba

In Manitoba, individuals and couples facing fertility challenges can benefit from government support in the form of the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit. This tax credit was first launched in 2010. The purpose of this fund is to reduce the net cost of fertility treatments and increase accessibility to these services for those who may not otherwise be able to afford them.

Learn more about fertility clinics in Manitoba, including Heartland Fertility, and then read more below on the government support services.

Overview of the Manitoba Fertility Treatment Tax Credit

The Fertility Treatment Tax Credit in Manitoba is a refundable tax credit equal to 40% of the cost of eligible fertility treatments. Effective for the 2024 tax year, the annual limits were doubled: individuals can now claim up to $40,000 in eligible costs for a maximum yearly refundable credit of $16,000. It is important to note that this credit is applicable only to treatments provided by a Manitoba licensed medical practitioner or infertility treatment clinic.

Eligible Costs and Limitations

There is no limit on the number of treatments that can be claimed under this credit. As of the 2024 tax year, individuals can claim up to $40,000 in annual eligible costs for a maximum yearly refundable credit of $16,000 (these limits were doubled from $20,000/$8,000 in Budget 2024). This refundable tax credit is available yearly. The fact that it is refundable is an important distinction compared to non-refundable tax credits. Refundable tax credits mean it will be payable to you regardless if you have annual income or not.

Be mindful of the fact that this credit does not cover all associated fertility costs. For instance, travel expenses (i.e. lodging when traveling for treatments) and other related costs are not eligible for the tax credit.

Covered Treatments

The Fertility Treatment Tax Credit applies to a range of fertility treatments, including assisted reproductive technology and prescription drugs prescribed by an accredited clinic in Manitoba, which includes Ovulation Induction, Therapeutic Donor Insemination (TDI), Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), Assisted Hatching, Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET), Oocyte Donation, Fertility Preservation among others. This broad coverage ensures that individuals and couples have the flexibility to pursue the most suitable and effective treatment for their unique circumstances.

Be mindful that treatments received or medications prescribed outside of Manitoba do not qualify. The treatments have to occur within the province.

Coverage Note on Donor Gametes and Surrogacy: The Manitoba tax credit covers treatments using donor sperm or donor ova, provided the treatment takes place within the province. Costs associated with surrogacy arrangements (e.g., legal fees, compensation to a surrogate) are not covered under the provincial tax credit, though medical fertility treatment costs for the intended parent may qualify.

Claiming the Credit

It’s important to understand the process of claiming the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit. The credit can be claimed by either spouse or partner, but it cannot be split between spouses or partners. This means that the maximum yearly credit of $16,000 is per couple, rather than per individual. You must file an income tax return to claim the credit.

Keep all invoices, receipts and documentation as evidence of the expenditures!

For more information, visit the provinces official FAQ.

Eligible Clinic

It’s worth noting that as of early 2024, the only clinic eligible for the Manitoba Fertility Tax Credit for Assisted Reproductive Technology is Heartland Fertility in Winnipeg. Therefore, individuals and couples seeking to benefit from this credit should ensure that their chosen clinic is in compliance with this requirement.

In conclusion, the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit in Manitoba serves as a valuable source of support for individuals and couples navigating the challenges of infertility. By providing financial relief for a wide range of fertility treatments, the government aims to make these services more accessible and affordable, ultimately helping more people realize their dream of starting a family.

Clinics in Manitoba

Clinic Name	City
Heartland Fertility	Winnipeg

FAQ

Is IVF free in Manitoba?

No, IVF is not free in Manitoba. The provincial government offers a tax credit for 40% of the costs up to $16,000 per year, available yearly. This will cover the partial cost of IVF. However, with IVF costing above $10,000, the tax credit will not cover the full cost of a round of treatment.

Is IUI free in Manitoba?

No, not all IUIs are free in Manitoba. However, with the government refundable tax credit of up to $16,000 to cover fertility treatments, up to 40% of the cost of an IUI cost will be covered in the form of a tax credit.

What is the wait time for IVF in Manitoba?

There is only one clinic offering IVF in Manitoba. The clinic is Heartland Fertility in Winnipeg. Please reach out to the clinic to learn about their current wait times.

What is the cost of IVF in Manitoba?

The cost of IVF at Heartland Fertility, the only clinic offering IVF in Manitoba is approximately $11,000 to $12,000. This does not include the cost of medication and other testing, which will vary by individual depending on the protocol.