The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) says it is taking steps to accommodate those who need extra assistance when filing their taxes this year.
For example, the CRA is:
- Adding more call centre agents and extending call hours to give taxpayers more time to have their tax and benefit questions answered;
- Providing a targeted interest relief for Canadians who received COVID-19 related income support benefits, giving them more time and flexibility to pay if they have an amount owing;
- Expanding payment arrangement parameters to provide Canadians more time and flexibility to repay a tax debt—those who are in difficult financial situations who find themselves owing money can call a CRA agent for help, toll-free at 1-888-863-8657 between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., Eastern time, Monday to Friday (except holidays);
- Helping employees cope with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic by making the deduction for home office expenses more accessible and easier to claim;
- Supporting community organizations who offer free virtual tax help to individuals with modest income and a simple tax situation through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP);
- Offering a new pilot program to offer grants to CVITP and Income Tax Assistance – Volunteer Program (IVATP) clinics to help them with the costs of running community tax clinics;
- Offering a Liaison Officer service that provides free personalized virtual visits by phone or videoconference to small business owners and self-employed individuals to help them understand their tax obligations.
“The CRA knows that Canadians expect a secure, easy, convenient, and fair tax system. While individuals and families continue to feel the effects of the pandemic, the CRA is committed to putting people first,” the agency said.
