Have you filed your taxes?

Tax time has arrived. To make this task as easy as possible, it is critical to prepare ahead of time. We have assembled some helpful tips below.

Preparation tips:

• Save all of your receipts throughout the year.
• Gather information on what you will need to complete your return and what benefits you are entitled to. For more information visit Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) .
• Do you qualify for the Disability Tax Credit? Find out by filling the Disability Tax credit certificate: T2011. Remember to send your form to CRA before filing your tax return.
• Access your tax information using the My Account service at www.cra.gc.ca/MyAccount. This year, you will need a CRA user ID and password to use the service. If you don’t already have one, go to www.cra.gc.ca/MyAccount and click on the No button to create one.

Resources:

There are both free and paid resources to help you file your taxes:
• Complete your taxes online through the online free certified software packages.
• Use the paper format by filling out the T1 General 2011 - Income tax and benefit return and sending to CRA. After completing this form, you can also calculate the amount of your return or tax by completing the T1 General 2011 - Federal Worksheet.
• Take advantage of volunteer community clinics. These offer free tax filing services for individuals who meet certain criteria. Refer to the list of volunteer tax preparation clinics in Ontario, choose your location and make an appointment!
• Select a paid service that specializes in filing taxes for people with disabilities.

For more information and resources on taxes for persons with disabilities, visit the dedicated page on CRA site. You can also access automated Tax Information Phone Services (TIPS) by calling 1-800-267-6999.