As the tax filing deadline approaches, the Canada Revenue Agency is remind Canadians with low or modest incomes that volunteers are available in the community to assist with the preparation of tax returns.
Each year, through its Community Volunteer Income Tax program, the CRA links with community organizations to train volunteers to complete basic tax returns.
The community organizations hold tax-preparation clinics where the volunteers donate their time to help people with simple-tax filing situations complete their income tax and benefit returns, free of charge.
“We encourage people who need help with their tax returns to use the volunteer program,” says Zubie Vuurens, CRA’s regional Community Volunteer Income Tax program coordinator.
“The service is free and it’s important to file a tax return to make sure you receive all the government benefits and credits you’re entitled to.”
Last year, in B.C. and the Yukon, 2,088 volunteers helped prepare 101,073 income tax returns.
To determine if you are eligible for this service, please phone the CRA toll free at 1-800-959-8281, or go online to cra.gc.ca/volunteer, for a complete listing of volunteer tax preparation clinic locations.
