Free tax preparation for Canadians on social assistance
CALGARY, Jan. 30, 2012 /CNW/ - H&R Block Canada is expanding its free Block Builders tax program for a limited time to help taxpayers on social assistance or Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB) or both get their tax returns prepared at no charge at participating locations until February 24.
"Last year, we donated more than $1.5 million in free tax preparation certificates through organizations like the United Way and food banks because we know lower income Canadians have to file a tax return in order to receive certain benefits and credits," says Bob Lougen, president, H&R Block Canada. "With more economic uncertainty for Canadians this year, we wanted to expand our program so more people can access free professional help and receive all of their benefits on time."
Benefits like the Child Tax Benefit, GST/HST benefit and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) are calculated based on the last tax return filed. Not filing by the April 30 deadline means the benefits will stop until a current year return is filed with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
"We believe in being active members in the communities we work in through our Block Builders program and this is just one more support we can provide," explains Lougen. "And we cover our free tax clients with the Block Advantage so they know we stand behind our work if they need assistance with the CRA."
In addition, H&R Block at Home online tax program is free all tax season for Canadians earning less than $20,000.
About H&R Block Canada
H&R Block Canada has been preparing taxes for more than 45 years and is Canada's leading tax preparation firm. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, the company serves Canadian taxpayers in more than 1,100 offices across the country. H&R Block Canada Inc. is a subsidiary of H&R Block, Inc., a diversified company with subsidiaries providing a wide range of financial products and services. Additional information about H&R Block Canada is available at 1-800-HRBLOCK or visit www.hrblock.ca for more tax tips.
Tina Quelch
Calador Communications
O: (416) 925-6034 x 22
E: [email protected]a
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