With the deadline to file your income tax looming at the end of April, there is no time like the present to start getting all of your ducks in a row.
Coming to the rescue is Jerry Koenderink, a retired teacher and volunteer at Cochrane Family and Community Support Services (FCSS). There, he works alongside Jan Watson to volunteer their tax guidance to low-income individuals and families, as part of the Canada Revenue Agency’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP).
His secret weapon, he said, is a tax software program called UFile.
“Our tax system has become so complicated and people are frightened of the complications,” stated Koenderink. “This program makes it so simple, you just enter in your data.”
While UFile simplifies the data entry and tax filing process, Koenderink said it’s up to each individual to have their yearly tax information organized before filing. It may sound tedious, but he recommended keeping a file on hand year-round where you can easily place income-tax-related material.
“Not even an accountant can help you unless you have all your information organized,” he said. “You can’t just show up with a shoebox full of receipts and slips.
“There is no escaping from taxes — you have to do them. Either you owe them money or they owe you. And you lose out if you don’t file.”
Even if you have a low income, he stressed the importance of filing, and filing on time.
This is especially important for people on social assistance programs and seniors who are receiving Old Age Security — if they don’t file, funds from these programs may stop coming.
Koenderink said the CVITP offers free assistance to seniors, adults and students who fit within the program guidelines: persons earning under $30,000 annually, or couples earning less than $45,000 each year.
The tax assistance program is available by appointment only at the FCSS. To make an appointment call 403-851-2250.
If you don’t qualify for the volunteer program, Koenderink will be hosting an information session at the Nan Boothby Memorial Library.
Getting underway around 7 p.m. on March 28, the free session will show participants how easy it is to use UFile tax software. Attendees are advised to bring their income tax slips, as well as a USB stick to transfer data.
To register for the session, contact the library at 403-932-4353. Koenderink will be at the library on April 4, 11 and 18, starting around 6:30 p.m. to offer additional support.
The UFile program can be picked up at a variety of locations, costing about $20.
