With the Public Service Alliance of Canada on strike, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has decided not to extend the tax deadline for Canadians. Over 39,000 CRA employees are among the 159,000 members of the public service union who are striking for improved work conditions and wages, among other issues. As the strike has forced CRA phone lines to close or operate at reduced capacity, some critics are concerned that Canadians will not be able to file their personal income tax returns by the May 1 deadline.
Many taxpayers have expressed frustration at the long wait times to speak with CRA representatives. Accountant Eric Saumure launched an online petition, which has received over 26,000 signatures, to extend the tax filing deadline to June 15. Saumure has argued that many Canadians are unable to reach knowledgeable accountants and rely on the CRA for assistance. The CRA, however, has stated that the deadline will remain unchanged, and that taxpayers who fail to file their taxes by May 1 will be subject to penalties and interest.
While the CRA may provide relief from penalties and interest if circumstances beyond a taxpayer’s control prevent them from meeting their obligations, the agency assesses each case on an individual basis. Information on applying for relief can be found on the CRA website. Nevertheless, Saumure maintains that the government’s refusal to extend the deadline will have a significant impact on low-income Canadians and seniors, who may be unable to pay penalties for filing late.
Despite the criticism, Minister of National Revenue Diane Lebouthillier has remained steadfast in the government’s decision. She has argued that the strike does not prevent Canadians from submitting their taxes online or on paper, and therefore the deadline will not be changed. However, many taxpayers and experts have countered that the inability to reach CRA representatives for assistance puts them at a disadvantage, particularly those who may not have access to knowledgeable accountants. As the strike continues, the CRA and the government will need to find a way to balance the needs of Canadians with the demands of striking workers.