Volunteers are being sought in New Brunswick for the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP).
The program offers free tax help to those with modest-to-no income and a simple tax solution.
Natasha Brewer, a team leader with CVITP, said their greatest need is in Grand Manan and Sackville.
“To hold a free tax clinic, we don’t necessarily need 10 or 20 volunteers,” Brewer said in a recent interview. “We do provide volunteer training, support, and resources.”
Volunteers could have a number of roles, she said, such as tax preparers, greeters and interpreters.
Brewer said their goal is to ensure everyone who qualifies for the program gets the help they need.
According to the Canada Revenue Agency, a modest income generally means a total family income of less than $35,000 for one person, $45,000 for two people, $47,500 for three people, $50,000 for four people, $52,500 for five people, and $2,500 for each additional person.
A tax situation is generally considered simple if a person has no income or if their income comes from employment, pension, the Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security, disability insurance, employment insurance, social assistance, RRSPs, scholarships, fellowships, bursaries, grants, and interest under $1,000.
Brewer said it is important for Canadians to file a tax return, even if they have no reportable income.
“Many individuals think that if they have no income that they don’t need to or shouldn’t file a return,” she said. “Filing this return could result in them receiving benefits or credits that they’re entitled to.”
You can learn more about the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, including how to volunteer at a clinic and where to find a clinic near you, through the Canada Revenue Agency’s website.
