Canadian Revenue Agency reminds BC residents of tax deadline

The Canadian Revenue Agency is reminding BC residents that tonight (Friday) is the deadline to file taxes.

Filing tax returns by the deadline will keep residents from being charged any late filing penalties on any money owed. 

“It’s important to file on time so that you can get any benefits and credits you may be eligible for,” said Gurm Kundan, CRA Communications Officer.

Kundan says signing up for direct deposit and filing online is the quickest way for residents to get their refund and view the notice of assessment.

“If you worked from home due to the pandemic you can claim expenses,” added Kundan, “the simple way is as a flat rate of $2 for each day you worked from home in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic up to $400 via the Temporary flat rate method – Eligibility criteria.”

Additionally, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB), Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB), and Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) are all considered taxable income.

T4A’s and T4E’s will all be sent in the mail with any necessary information, while tax slips can be viewed online.

“If you file your return by the deadline, you may be able to make a payment arrangement,” said Kundan, “this lets you make smaller payments over time for the debt and interest until you’ve paid the entire amount.”

More information on tax filing can be found on the Canadian Revenue Agency website.