OTTAWA – The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA), represented by Executive Director Michael MacKenzie were pleased to meet with National Revenue Minister Gail Shea this week to discuss changes at the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Starting this year, paper tax forms will no longer be mailed to Canadians unless they request a package by getting in touch with the CRA.
Given our membership are frequently not home during winter months they may not have received the notice from the CRA advising them of the change.
A paper tax form can still be received by:
- calling the CRA at 1-800-959-2221;
- visiting any Canada Post of Service Canada location; or,
- by downloading the form directly from the CRA website.
As Minister Shea noted, “the way Canadians file their taxes is changing and CRA is changing to meet those needs. Taxpayers can still file on paper and tax forms are available on request or at their local Canada Post Office or Service Canada location”.
She also noted that last year more than 1.3 million packages were mailed out and never used. That is 80 million pieces of paper that ended up in the garbage.
More and more seniors are turning to the internet and online services for their communication or everyday shopping needs, and we encourage our members to get online, but we are pleased that Minister Shea has ensured that paper tax forms are still available to any of our members who have yet to make the switch to online tax filing.
The CSA applauds Minister Shea for continuing to look for the most efficient use of taxpayer resources and thanks Minister Shea for taking the time to reach out to our organization. We look forward to working with the Minister and the Canada Revenue Agency in the future to best serve our membership.
For more information please contact:
Michael MacKenzie, Executive Director
Canadian Snowbird Association
Toronto
Phone: 647-401-6953
