When it comes tax time so many people get frustrated about having to do their taxes, then they almost panic when they run into some complex problems and the deadline is drawing near, and their returns are not completed.
Then there is the after the tax season where everyone breathes a sigh of relief that their taxes are done and over with for the year, but there is still a little anxiety as to whether something will be wrong with the return, and the CRA will be calling.
There are several tax resources available to you for both before you do your tax filing, and following it. The main thing to remember is not to leave doing your taxes till the last minute.
Before Your Tax Filing – The CRA Resources
The tax department does have a CRA website that you can go to when you need additional answers about filing your tax. If you are doing your own return and run into a stumbling block then you can go to the site and look for the answers. Often they address specific problems that are common to a lot of people. One issue you may have is still not being able to understand the material if it is a complex problem. You will also find that there are many different types of tax guides that you can download as well.
After Your Tax Filing The Taxpayer’s Omsbudsman
Most often if there is an issue after you have filed your tax return and it is a small one, you will be able to clear it up quickly. It may be that you just need to send some additional documentation to support your claim for example. If you are not happy with a CRA decision there is also an appeals process. If you believe that you are being treating unfairly or without respect then there is the Taxpayers Omsbudsman that you can turn to.
Before and After Your Tax Filing – Your Tax Preparer
It is always a good idea to have a quality tax preparer that you can begin to build a tax relationship with. Especially, if your tax responsibilities are a little complex in any way. One of the key factors to this being a successful resource is that you choose an expert in the field of taxes that has been trained properly and has the experience. There are always temporary tax preparers popping up at tax time, but you really should find yourself a reasonably priced tax accountant that you can return to each year for your tax obligations.
