The proven solution to reducing poverty is putting more money in people’s pockets.
Government income supports are the most thought-of method of doing this. But all these direct supports rely on a foundational process—that of filing taxes. While often overlooked, tax-informed rebates can be one of the most powerful and most direct avenues to securing additional income. In some cases, tax rebates and credits can help shrink, even eliminate the gap between incomes and the rising costs of daily needs.
For eligible families, the Canada Child Tax Credit, the BC Child Opportunity Benefit and GST/HST and tax credits have the combined potential to boost incomes by 10 to 20 per cent. For working individuals, there is the Canada Workers benefit (which could add between $1,000 and $3,000). For individuals and couples of retirement age, Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement assessments are dependent upon income. In addition to monthly direct cash transfers, eligibility for health and dental coverage, renter top-ups, one-time rebates as well as some subsidized wellness and recreation activities all rely upon up-to-date tax information.
The Sunshine Coast Poverty Reduction project works to ensure that available benefits are not being left unclaimed because of the fear of “owing”, the costs of filing or challenges with government forms or processes. The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) is up and running at six locations around the Sunshine Coast. April 30 is the tax deadline, but the CVITC program is here to support you all year round. Visit resourcecentre.ca/program/taxes/ to learn more about whether you are eligible and to book a time.
An equitable Canada relies upon enhancing opportunity for all Canadians. A just Canadian taxation system relies upon all individuals filing taxes. This allows those with more resources to contribute to the common good to increase opportunities for all. Anti-poverty work is about ensuring equitable participation for all in society.
Taxation should be a foundational means to greater economic equality. More money in the pockets of people who struggle to meet basic needs means that they can participate with autonomy and dignity; values we uphold within our work and within our communities.
