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The 2021 Tax Season Has Begun

Laura Hampshire
Feb 22, 2021 | 10:41 AM
The 2021 Tax Season Has Begun


Today marks the official launch of the 2021 Tax Season.

That means individuals can now file their 2020 income tax and benefit return.

Due to the extraordinary conditions we have all faced over the last year, this tax season will be unlike any other.

For the millions of Canadians accessing the Government of Canada’s emergency and recovery benefits to make ends meet over the last year, the numerous essential workers who are keeping the economy afloat, and the countless people who are doing their part by limiting their interactions with others, the Government of Canada says it will continue to support you.

In this spirit, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has taken steps to accommodate those who need extra assistance when filing their taxes this year. For example, the CRA is:

  • Adding more call centre agents and extending call hours to give taxpayers more time to have their tax and benefit questions answered;
  • Providing a targeted interest relief for Canadians who received COVID-19 related income support benefits, giving them more time and flexibility to pay if they have an amount owing;
  • Expanding payment arrangement parameters to provide Canadians more time and flexibility to repay a tax debt—those who are in difficult financial situations who find themselves owing money can call a CRA agent for help, toll-free at 1-888-863-8657 between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., Eastern time, Monday to Friday (except holidays);
  • Helping employees cope with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic by making the deduction for home office expenses more accessible and easier to claim;
  • Supporting community organizations who offer free virtual tax help to individuals with modest income and a simple tax situation through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP);
  • Offering a new pilot program to offer grants to CVITP and Income Tax Assistance – Volunteer Program (IVATP) clinics to help them with the costs of running community tax clinics;
  • Offering a Liaison Officer service that provides free personalized virtual visits by phone or videoconference to small business owners and self-employed individuals to help them understand their tax obligations.

For more details on the 2021 Tax Season, please click here.

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