The Canada Revenue Agency and Revenu Québec announce measures in support of the community organizations involved in the Volunteer Program

Montréal (Quebec), January 28, 2017

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue and Quebec Finance Minister Carlos J. Leitão are happy to announce the creation of a discussion forum in support of the community organizations that are involved in the Volunteer Program.

The announcement was made during a volunteer training day held in Montréal. Ministers Lebouthillier and Leitão used the opportunity to meet with representatives from community organizations, as well as several volunteers, to thank them for their contribution and reiterate their support.

The Canada Revenue Agency and Revenu Québec also confirmed a pilot project agreement with the Quebec Public Library Association that will provide computer-equipped spaces to community organizations so that they may hold training sessions and tax preparation clinics.

Filing over 160,000 returns in Quebec
The Volunteer Program helps modest-income individuals prepare their income tax returns. Its main objective is to assist people who otherwise might not receive the tax credits and benefits they are entitled to. To fulfill this mandate, the Program relies on the support of partner organizations that are responsible for organizing and conducting tax preparation clinics. The tax clinics are usually open each year from mid-February to the end of April. In 2015-2016, over 3,000 volunteers in 535 organizations filed more than 160,000 income tax returns in Quebec.

Those interested in volunteering can register on the Revenu Québec website at the following address: revenuquebec.ca/volunteer.

“Our government is committed to offering services that are more client-focused at the Canada Revenue Agency. This means that the Agency must ensure that all Canadians receive the benefits to which they are entitled. The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program is offered across Canada and is a great resource for individuals and families.”

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue