Do you qualify for free tax help?
As the 2022 income tax season begins, many people are on the hunt for the easiest and most affordable option to get their income taxes done. Some have the technological capabilities and understanding to file their own taxes online with help of different software options, and for others that find the paperwork overwhelming, they may seek out an accountant, or companies that focus on income tax preparation. For the people who are worried about the cost they could potentially pay, there is an option for those who qualify to have their return completed through a program called the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP).
The CVITP, in partnership with the CRA and different community organizations, host free tax clinics, where volunteers complete your tax return. For this year, there is a mix of free in-person and virtual tax clinics. There are however strict criteria that people must fit within to qualify for these services:
- Individuals must have a modest income. The suggested income levels are as follows:
- 1 person – Total income of less than $35,000
- 2 people – Total income of less than $45,000
- 3 people – Total income of less than $47,500
- 4 people – Total income of less than $50,000
- 5 people – Total income of less than $52,500
- More than 5 people – Total income of $52,500, plus $2,500 for each additional person.
- Individuals must have a simple tax situation which is defined as having no income or their income comes from the sources below:
- Employment
- Pension
- Canada Pension Plan
- Old Age Security
- Disability insurance
- Employment insurance
- Social assistance
- RRSPs
- Scholarships/fellowships/bursaries or grants
- Interest (under $1,000)
To find the free tax clinics in your city, or more information about the program, please visit the link below.
https://apps.cra-arc.gc.ca/.../prot/cli_srch_01_ld.action
If you have old income tax debt, or have found yourself in a position where you owe for 2022, and it’s keeping you from progressing with your financial goals, it might be worth looking into your options so you can get back on track.
If you are looking for advice, or a second opinion about your debt, it does not cost anything to talk about your options. Every financial situation is unique and viable options can differ from person to person. A conversation free of judgment and cost, is the first step to determine options for debt that make sense for you. For a free consultation, please call or text (506) 645-1814 or email jaime@tackledebt.ca; or visit www.tackledebt.ca