The Volunteer Income Tax Program program is a free service available to eligible residents who have low income and a simple tax situation. This year, in keeping with physical distancing guidelines, there will be no face-to-face meetings. Instead, volunteers will receive all documentation electronically and conduct meetings over the phone.
“This volunteer income tax program is a much-needed program here in Cochrane,” shares Kim Krawec, Manager, Family & Community Support Services (FCSS).
“Last year, our volunteers completed 508 tax returns for Cochrane and area residents which allowed families and individuals to access important government benefits such as the Child Tax Benefit, GST rebate, Old Age Security benefits and others,” she said.
The service is a collaboration between FCSS and the Canada Revenue Agency. Volunteers are trained by the Canada Revenue Agency to prepare simple tax returns.
“We truly appreciate our staff, community partners and volunteers for the work they put into this program each year,” Krawec added. “It makes a huge impact in our community and helps improve our residents’ quality of life.”
The program starts at the beginning of March and runs until the end of April. To find out more about eligibility requirements and what you need to get started, please call Cochrane Family & Community Support Services at 403-851-2250.