Canadian taxpayers with fixed or low incomes now have an extra convenience when it comes to filing taxes, all it takes is a phone call and in a few minutes everything is done.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is sending invitations to some taxpayers to start using SimpleFile by Phone to file their taxes this week. The service is completely free and very easy to use, it is available in English and French and works in an automated way.
SimpleFile by Phone: A new way to file taxes
Filing your income tax return in Canada has never been easier, because with SimpleFile by Phone, you can file your taxes over the phone in just 10 minutes.
In an official statement, the CRA said: “People with low or fixed incomes and a simple tax situation may receive an invitation letter to use this service in February 2024.”
The system formerly known as File My Return now makes it easier to file taxes in Canada.
SimpleFile by Phone works by using information on file with the CRA, combined with the answers you provide over the phone.
This way, in just a few minutes over the phone, you can file and automatically process your tax returns.
The Canada Revenue Agency is stressing that not all taxpayers will be able to use the system. Only those who receive the personalized invitation letter in February are eligible.
In addition, the service is only valid for automatically filing the current tax year’s income tax and benefit return.
Oh, and an interesting new feature is that using SimpleFile will allow Canadian taxpayers to access benefit and credit payments, such as the Canada Child Benefit and the GST credit, without the need for any documentation.
At the end of the call, taxpayers with a personal identification number will also be able to receive net income, taxable income and information on refund estimates.
The agency also warns that taxpayers can use the system without fear, because if they make a mistake while filing, they can simply call again.
This is because disconnecting or being disconnected from SimpleFile before the end of the call will erase the information entered, and the process will have to be started from scratch.
What you need to know about SimpleFile Canada:
- The invitation letter will be sent by mail, except for those who are registered in My Account and have chosen email as their preferred correspondence method.
- The step-by-step instructions for filing taxes over the phone will be sent in the invitation letter.
- The system is available 21 hours a day, from 6am to 3am EST, seven days a week.
- There is no need to speak to a contact center agent.
- Tax returns can be completed in just 10 minutes.
- You will need to use your phone keypad to confirm some personal information and answer a series of short questions.
- If you have any questions about SimpleFile by phone, simply call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281.