Taxes for Electricians in Canada (2026)
Licensed electricians — journeymen and master electricians alike — earn strong wages in Canada. Tool costs, union dues, and apprenticeship expenses are legitimate deductions that reduce your annual tax bill.
Quick Tax Snapshot
Based on a typical electricians salary of $80,000 in Ontario (2026).
Gross Salary $80,000
Federal Income Tax -$10,293
Ontario Tax & Health Premium -$5,205
CPP Contributions -$4,446
EI Premiums -$1,123
Estimated Take-Home (Annual) $58,933
Effective tax rate: 26.3% • Marginal federal rate: 20.5% • Marginal Ontario tax & levy rate: 9.2%
Gross Salary
$80,000
Typical median (CAD)
Take-Home Pay
$58,933
After all deductions (ON)
Effective Rate
26.3%
Combined tax rate
Monthly Take-Home
$4,911
Approximate monthly
Key Tax Deductions for Electricians
- ✓ Tool costs (if required by employer and not reimbursed, up to the tradesperson tools deduction)
- ✓ Union dues paid to IBEW or provincial electrical unions
- ✓ Provincial licence renewal fees
- ✓ Safety equipment: hard hats, safety boots, PPE
- ✓ Work-related training and code update courses
- ✓ RRSP contributions
Frequently asked questions
What is the tradesperson's tools deduction?
Eligible tradespersons can deduct the cost of new tools purchased over a $1,471 threshold (2025), up to a maximum of $1,000 per year (raised from $500 starting the 2023 tax year). You need a T2200 from your employer confirming you were required to supply your own tools.
Can an electrician deduct union dues?
Yes. IBEW dues and other union dues are deductible on line 21200 of your T1 tax return.
How does an apprentice electrician file taxes?
Apprentices are typically T4 employees. They can claim union dues, tool costs (tradesperson deduction), and may qualify for the Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit for their employer. Apprentices should also check the Canada Training Credit for eligible training.
Do electricians pay EI premiums?
Yes. Employed electricians pay EI premiums via payroll deductions. The 2025 employee rate is 1.64% on insurable earnings up to $65,700, for a maximum of approximately $1,077.
Calculate Your Actual Tax
The snapshot above uses a typical salary. Use our Income Tax Calculator to enter your exact income, province, and tax year for a personalized breakdown.
Open Income Tax Calculator