CRA will provide extra assistance when you file taxes

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.