You can still file your 2019 income tax and benefit return

This year, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) extended the tax-filing deadline from April 30 to June 1, 2020, to help Canadians meet their tax-filing needs during the COVID-19 crisis.According to a CRA release, many Canadians took advantage of having more time to file their income tax and benefit return.  However, if you haven’t submitted your income tax return, you still can!

The CRA doesn’t want you to miss out on the important benefits and credits you’re entitled to, and filing your return ensures you get the correct payment amounts. To make sure your benefit payments continue and any refund comes quickly CRA strongly encourages people to file as soon as possible.

The CRA extended the deadline to pay amounts owing to September 1, 2020. Penalties and interest will not be charged if you make your payment by September 1, 2020. This includes the late-filing penalty.The sooner you file your return, the less likely it is that your benefit and credit payments will be affected. You will continue to receive important payments to help you through the COVID-19 crisis.

If the CRA has not assessed your 2019 return, information from your 2018 return will be used to calculate the benefit and credit payments sent to you until September 2020. If this information is used, you may not receive the right amounts. To help avoid this, file your 2019 return as soon as possible.

Also, if the CRA owes you a refund, the earlier you file, the earlier your refund will be in your pocket. For more information on all the changes to taxes and benefits because of COVID-19, go to www.canada.ca/cra-coronavirus . Community Care volunteers are still available to complete 2019 income tax returns for seniors who live in Prince Edward County.

If you are a senior 60+ whose single income is $35,000 or lower or a couple whose household income is $45,000 or lower, you may be eligible for help through this program. Volunteers have been trained by Canada Revenue Agency to complete Income Tax Returns for eligible clients.  We’re offering a physically distant service this year due to the pandemic. There is no charge, donations are encouraged. For information call 613-476-7493 and leave a detailed message. Non seniors who meet the CRA criteria can contact the Prince Edward Learning Centre at 613-476-1811 for assistance with both the OESP and Income Tax preparation. Community Care Services For details on other services to help seniors live safely at home call Community Care at 613-476-7493 and leave a detailed message; email [email protected]; check our website at www.communitycareforseniors.org; or go to our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CommunityCareforSeniors.

-Debbie MacDonald Moynes