By Ian Holmes

‘They’re so thankful:’ volunteers file taxes for Nanaimo’s low-income earners

Apr 19, 2018 | 4:32 PM

NANAIMO — A group of Nanaimo volunteers have been easing tax pain for local low-income earners for nearly two-decades.

The Community Income Tax Service files about 2,600 tax returns for low-income earners on the mid-island annually, according to coordinator Donna Stewart. She told NanaimoNewsNOW their clients appreciate getting much-needed modest refunds, which do have an economic impact.

“When we tell people they’re getting the $75 provincial Sales Tax Credit or they’re getting a $200 or $300 tax refund they’re overjoyed because they have things that they have not been able to pay for and they are going out and getting those things.”

Stewart said many of their clients would likely fall behind on their taxes and not file if a free service wasn’t available.

She said most of their 13 volunteers are active or retired accountants, who serve individuals earning under $30,000 and couples who make less than $40,000 a year.

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“It’s unbelievable how many seniors are actually low-income, it’s sad really.”

Stewart said young people and international students also rely heavily on the year-round service.

She noted it only takes 15 minutes to process each file and they are available to help Fridays and Saturdays through the end of April. Otherwise personal income taxes can be handled the third Friday of every month at the Volunteer Nanaimo office on Barons Rd.

Appointments must be booked by phone by calling 250-758-7121.

The Community Income Tax Service is sponsored by the Canada Revenue Agency.

ian@NanaimoNewsNow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes