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Income tax service welcomes dumb questions

Mar 10, 2017 | 11:00 AM

When it comes to filing income taxes, there’s no stupid questions.

That’s according to Janine Huntley, owner of Prince Albert’s Liberty Tax Service.

She explained it is challenging to find savings for people especially when keeping up with any changes being made by the federal government, which is why it’s important to ask questions.

“You might have that golden question where it is worth $500,” she said. “Everyone wants money back. People’s questions are usually ‘how can I make this better for next year?’ and what can they do to get a bigger refund.”

For most Canadians, the deadline for income and benefit returns for 2016 is due on April 30. Since that day falls on a Sunday, the Canada Revenue Agency will consider returns and payments on time if received on May 1.

Filing online has been available since Feb. 20.

Huntley said one of the most common problems people experience is not providing all their slips.

“We can get them online now for people,” she said. “The problem is people don’t realize how many slips they are missing. A lot of [slips] are being sent out by email and people aren’t aware that slips have been sent out that way so they think they aren’t getting them.”

In general, Huntley described people coming in to do their taxes as a wave. Her best advice is for people to come in early before the deadline. She said if someone owes money, the interest will start immediately after the deadline.

She added if anyone is concerned about missed slips then make sure to ask about it.

Those needing help to file their taxes can also attend a tax preparation clinics in the city. Family Futures Inc. is holding clinics starting on Monday and requires an appointment. Those interested can call (306) 763-0760.

The other clinic is being run by the Prince Albert Indian Metis Friendship Centre and is already offering its services. The centre is welcoming walk-in appointments as well as by phone at (306) 764-3431.

 

Jeff.Labine@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @labinereporter.