It’s That Time Again! Annual Income Tax Clinic (Feb – Mar 2006)

The 411 Seniors Centre’s income tax clinic starts on Wednesday, March 1, and ends Friday, April 28. During March and April, the clinic is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm. Clients are screened for eligibility in the cafeteria, and then they proceed to the second floor where the preparers complete their tax returns.

Why file a tax return? You may not owe money. Money may be owed to you. All seniors, even those with low incomes, should file a tax return. Many seniors’ benefits are income tested by the amount of earnings reported on tax returns. Also, if a tax return is not prepared, a Goods and Services Tax (GST) credit isn’t sent out.

In order to be eligible for the clinic, you must:

1. Be 55 years of age or older. (We will assist disabled clients who are younger than 55 years providing they meet the other requirements).

2. Have a total yearly income that does not exceed $20,000 per person, or $30,000 per couple.

3. Have a simple tax return, with no complex stocks, bonds or dividends.

4. Have interest income not exceeding $1,000. Please note that we do not prepare returns for individuals who are deceased, self-employed, have earned rental income and who have bought and sold property that results in a capital gain or loss.

If your return is complicated, please call the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency for assistance. Their phone number is 1-800-959-8281.

The clinic is very busy during the first weeks of March and operates on a first come, first served basis. Seniors need to bring in all their income tax slips and the 2005 income tax return if they have received one from Revenue Canada.

During the first week of March we generally reach our daily maximum quota of returns by 11:00 am. If you arrive after 11 am, you may be asked to come back the following day. Please be patient. Our tax screeners and preparers are volunteers who are giving their time and skills to make our clinic possible. Please note you can bring in a maximum of two tax returns at one time. The clinic is provided free of charge, although donations are appreciated.

For more information please contact Joanne at 604-684-8171, local 233, or by email at jvansnellenberg@411seniors.bc.ca.