Digital News Subscription Tax Credit
A small tax break for staying informed through Canadian journalism
If you subscribe to a Canadian digital newspaper or online news platform, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit that rewards your support for independent journalism. While modest in value, the Digital News Subscription Tax Credit is easy to claim and reflects the federal government’s commitment to sustaining trusted Canadian news sources in the digital age.
This matters when you are filing your tax return, managing household expenses, or reviewing eligible deductions for the year. Whether you subscribe for personal enrichment, professional insight, or daily updates, this credit helps offset part of that cost.
What Is the Digital News Subscription Tax Credit?
This credit is a non-refundable federal tax credit introduced in 2020 for individuals who subscribe to qualified Canadian digital news media. The credit is designed to support original reporting by allowing readers to claim a portion of their paid subscriptions.
The credit allows you to claim 15 percent of up to $500 in eligible digital news subscription costs, for a maximum annual credit of $75.
It applies to subscriptions paid for personally, not those reimbursed by an employer or bundled with other services such as TV or non-news content.
Important: Only digital subscriptions from eligible Canadian news organizations qualify. If your subscription includes non-news features or is bundled with streaming or international content, it may not be eligible.
Who Can Claim the Credit?
You can claim this credit if:
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You are a Canadian resident for income tax purposes
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You paid for an eligible digital news subscription in the tax year
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The subscription is not primarily for a business or reimbursed by an employer
This credit is available to individuals only, and each spouse or partner can claim their own eligible subscriptions separately if paid for independently.
You must ensure the publication is qualified under the CRA’s list of Qualified Canadian Journalism Organizations (QCJOs). Most qualifying outlets clearly state their eligibility on their website or receipts.
Eligible vs. Ineligible Subscriptions
Not every subscription to online content qualifies. Here is a comparison to clarify which types of subscriptions you can claim:
| Eligible Subscriptions | Not Eligible |
|---|---|
| Digital-only access to a QCJO news website | Print-only subscriptions or print + digital bundles |
| Digital subscriptions with access to paywalled articles and original reporting | Subscriptions bundled with video, lifestyle, or sports-only content |
| Separate digital subscriptions for spouses | Business or employer-paid subscriptions |
| CRA-listed eligible outlets (e.g. The Globe and Mail, La Presse, Toronto Star) | Subscriptions to foreign publications or non-news media |
Only the portion of your subscription that provides access to original written news content from a qualified organization is eligible.
Tip: Check your digital subscription receipt or the publication’s website to confirm CRA-eligible status before claiming. Look for the phrase “qualified Canadian journalism organization” or ask their customer service.
How Much Can You Claim?
You can claim 15 percent of up to $500 in qualifying digital news subscription expenses per year.
For example:
| Total Annual Subscription Cost | Eligible Portion | Tax Credit (15%) |
|---|---|---|
| $120 | $120 | $18 |
| $300 | $300 | $45 |
| $500 | $500 | $75 (maximum) |
| $650 | $500 (limit) | $75 (maximum) |
If your subscription includes other non-qualifying content (like video streaming or bundled entertainment), only the portion attributed to written news content can be claimed. You may need to contact the provider for a breakdown.
How to Claim the Credit
The credit is claimed on your annual tax return using line 31350. You do not need to submit receipts with your return, but you should retain them in case the CRA requests documentation later.
You should keep:
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Digital receipts or email confirmations
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A record of the publisher and date of purchase
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Any communications showing the subscription qualifies under CRA guidelines
At Optimize, we help you track lesser-known credits like this one as part of your annual planning review. Even small amounts can add up, especially when combined with other digital expenses and charitable contributions.
Why the Digital News Credit Is Worth Remembering
Although the value of this credit is modest, it is a rare example of a federal tax break specifically supporting journalism. It is especially worthwhile if you already pay for subscriptions that qualify and want to ensure you are capturing every possible tax credit available.
You might think about this the next time you:
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Renew or sign up for an online Canadian news source
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Review your credit card or email receipts at tax time
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Discuss deductible expenses with your advisor
At Optimize, we help you spot opportunities like the Digital News Subscription Tax Credit that are often overlooked. By reviewing receipts, identifying eligible expenses, and keeping your plan current, we make sure every part of your financial life is aligned and intentional.