Reducing the tax burden with The Salvation Army

by Maritime
Share:

    It’s tax season and once again The Salvation Army is offering complimentary clinics across the Maritimes to help those living on low or fixed incomes.

    While filing personal income tax is required by law, it has its benefits. For those living on low or fixed incomes, income tax filing makes them eligible for GST credits, property tax credits, child tax benefits, and old age pension. The maximum income guideline varies based on your personal situation – such as if you are married or have children, but it begins with a maximum of $30,000 for individuals.

    Last year, over 1,000 individuals took advantage of Salvation Army tax clinics across the Maritimes. Captain Joyce Downer with Community and Family Services in Kentville says, “We have seen a significant response to our tax clinic, which has helped a number of people complete their taxes this year. For many community members, it means a much needed return.”

    Most tax clinics are offered through a partnership between the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), and community groups. The Salvation Army provides staff, space and materials while the CRA offers training, tax software for volunteers and clinic coordinators.

    In areas where The Salvation Army does not offer tax clinics, the staff and volunteers are knowledgeable of other organizations or volunteers that do. To find a tax clinic nearest to you, please contact your local Salvation Army

    NEW BRUNSWICK

    Moncton – Two locations for the general public on a first come first serve basis. Every Tuesday in April at The Salvation Army, 20 Centennial Drive from 9 a.m. to noon. Every Friday, except Good Friday, at 32 King Street from 1 to 3:30 p.m. throughout April. Contact 506.389.9901.

    Fredericton – Every Thursday during April from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 531 St. Mary’s Street. Contact Fredericton CFS at 506.453.1706.

    Saint John – Every Monday and Tuesday during April from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3:00 p.m at 27 Prince Edward Street. Contact Saint John CFS at 506.634.1633.

    Miramichi – On Thursday, April 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Miramichi Volunteer Services, 133 Newcastle Blvd. Contact 506.622-6565.

    NOVA SCOTIA

    Halifax Centre of Hope – On Thursdays, April 13 and April 27 from 1 to 3:30 p.m.  at 2038 Gottingen Street by appointment only. Please contact Velma or Doreen at 902.422.1598 to make an appointment.

    Kentville – On Mondays, April 3, 10, 24 at 15, Nichols Avenue from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

    Pictou County – Every Thursday until April 27; and Tuesdays April 11 and 25 at the New Glasgow Library from 1 to 4 p.m.; April 18 at the New Glasgow Superstore from 1 to 4 p.m.; Monday, April 3 at the Stellarton Stellarite Seniors Club and on Friday, April 7 at the Pictou New Horizons Seniors Club. Please call 902-755-6031 to make an appointment.

    Spryfield – The Salvation Army is partnering with the YMCA for newcomers to take advantage of the Tax Clinic on April 5 and 19 at 328 Herring Cove Road from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact 902.477.5393 to make an appointment.

    Sydney – In Sydney, the Membertou C@P Site is offering a Tax Clinic every Thursday until April 27 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

    Truro – Clinics are being held at the Colchester-East Hants Public Library. Contact 902-896-4193 for more information.