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Ottawa – Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo, is informing constituents that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is taking steps to improve the tax filing experience for Canadians.
These changes, which will be applicable when you file your 2017 tax return, are going to make the process of finding, completing and filing a return easier, especially for those with low or fixed incomes.
First, the government is launching a “File my Return” automated telephone filing service. With this service, those with low or fixed incomes will be eligible to file income tax and benefit returns by giving their personal information and answering a series of short questions over an automated phone service. Canadians who are eligible for this service will receive a personalized invitation letter in the mail in the middle of February 2018.
The service will be open for use on Feb. 26, 2018. It will be available throughout the tax filing season 21 hours a day, from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. (EST), 7 days a week. This service is free, safe, and simple to use.
Second, the government has implemented a change to make the tax filing process easier for those using paper forms.
Canadians who used paper forms last year will now receive the tax-filing package by mail instead of having to pick it up at the Canada Post and Service Canada.
The package will include: two copies of the federal tax forms and schedules, two copies of the provincial/territorial tax forms and schedules, the General Income Tax and Benefit Guide for 2017 and a pre-addressed return envelope.
Starting Jan. 8, those wishing to download and print the forms will be able to do so.
On Feb. 5, those who wish to order the paper version of the tax-filing package will be able to do so by calling the dedicated line at 1-855-330-3305.
Please note that for most Canadians, the deadline to file a return is Apr. 30, 2018.
For any questions you may have regarding the tax-filing process, please visit: canada.ca/taxes-get-ready.
At the webpage, you will find links to services and information, including tax tips, a step-by-step guide on how to file an income tax and benefit return, and information on certified software, including some that is free.
