Volunteers are needed to help file simple income tax returns for people in the community, as part of the Canada Revenue Agency's (CRA) community volunteer income tax program (CVITP).
To volunteer, individuals must be willing to be affiliated with a community organization and have a basic understanding of income tax. Volunteers and community organizations are especially needed on the Sunshine Coast to host tax preparation clinics.
For more than 40 years, community organizations and their volunteers have offered free tax preparation clinics in various locations including, schools, churches, seniors’ residences, and nursing homes. Community organizations find the CVITP an excellent way to reach out to seniors, students and newcomers to Canada, by helping to complete tax returns for those with modest incomes and simple tax situations.
“Some people don’t realize they must file an income tax and benefit return to receive their benefits and credits, such as the goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax credit, the Canada child tax benefit, and the guaranteed income supplement,” said Zubie Vuurens, CRA CVITP coordinator. “Helping members of your community prepare and file their tax returns ensures these individuals receive their benefits and credits they’re entitled to without interruptions.”
Last year, 2,088 volunteers and 391 community organizations in B.C. and Yukon helped over 100,000 people prepare and file their returns.
The CRA offers free training and tax preparation software to community organizations and their volunteers. Training sessions start this month. For more information, call 1-888-805-6662, or visit www.cra.gc.ca/volunteer.
