This year, under COVID-19 conditions, the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) is changing how it provides free services. In a United Way of Bruce Grey media release, most local organizations in Grey Bruce will be offering drop-off and pickup services as well as virtual or phone services. Across both counties, there are over 14 listings in 19 towns and cities that offer free tax services for 2021. The organizations and volunteers providing this service have been very creative about how to make sure these services stay available and diligently follow COVID-19 guidelines.
"This program is a valuable resource that helps individuals and families file their taxes to ensure they are getting the benefits and supports they qualify for, putting more money back in their pockets," said Alex Ruff, MP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound. "Thank you to everyone who is working hard to make all the Community Volunteer Income Tax Programs possible despite the challenges the pandemic has presented."
The volunteer program is free and offers tax preparation services to residents in Bruce and Grey counties that meet specific income guidelines:
Individual: $35,000 or less
Married or Common law couple: $45,000 or less
Single Parent with one child: $40,000 or less, Add $2,500 per additional child
Interest income limited to under $1,000
The government is using taxes to make sure people are receiving benefits and credits that they are eligible for; getting more money to those who need it. The best way to make sure you get the benefits you are eligible for is to file your income taxes each year. Some of these benefits include the Canada Child Benefit, Trillium Benefit, GST/HST Credit, and the Guaranteed Income Supplement.
Seniors living on a low income may qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS; Federal) and the Guaranteed Annual Income Systems (GAINS; Provincial).
Entitlement to GAINS is assessed at the same time as GIS. This is not automatic; seniors have to apply to see if they are eligible. "You can do this when you first apply for your Old Age Security (OAS) in Section C of the Application for the Old Age Security Pension and Guaranteed Income Supplement (ISP-3550)," read the release.
"If you already receive OAS and want to apply for the GIS, you can apply on your My Service Canada Account or use the Application for the Old Age Security Pension and Guaranteed Income Supplement (ISP-3550). You need to file your taxes each year to reapply for these benefits," the release continued.
There has been a lot of confusion and fear around filing taxes this year. "For people who received any one of the five COVID-19 related benefits, filing your taxes is the best way to keep receiving the benefits and credits you are entitled to. The government is going to make sure those who are eligible still get these benefits for the near future," the release said, adding that for anyone who owes on their taxes and made less than $75,000 in 2020, the government is extending the time to pay until April 30th, 2022 and providing 0 percent interest for the first year.
"Completing your taxes this tax season is a good way to make sure you get benefits and credits you are eligible for and gives more flexibility and time to pay outstanding taxes," the release said.
The Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force works with 211 each year to list all free tax services in Grey Bruce; to identify local barriers, and to engage with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), community organizations, and volunteers to address those barriers.
To access services:
Visit Ontario.ca/TaxReturn to learn how to get Ontario tax credits and benefits.
Call 2-1-1 for help finding a free tax service close to you.
Access the Free Community Income Tax Service Listing online at brucegrey.cioc.ca/record/GRE0364?Number=0.
