NEWS RELEASE
UNITED WAY PERTH-HURON
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It’s tax season and most people are busy doing their own taxes or paying someone to do them. But access to tax services is not equitable, and United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) and Poverty to Prosperity Huron Perth (P2P) want to help get the word out about a valuable existing service available to residents who qualify.
“Research shows that 10 to 12 per cent of Canadians don’t file their taxes,” said UWPH Director of Research, Kristin Crane. “Among this group, modest income households — especially those with children — are particularly affected because if they don’t file taxes, they can’t claim the refunds and benefits they are entitled to. These volunteer tax clinics play a vital role in ensuring that gap is addressed.”
Helping people get access to their benefits and credits through the tax system has proven to be a successful poverty reduction strategy. P2P co-chair Pam Hanington notes that “income is the most significant determinant of health. As income increases, health improves. Having more income also allows people to participate more fully in their communities.”
Seniors, newcomers, students, and those receiving income from social assistance programs, among others, meet the criteria for the free clinics, which make a positive impact on the lives of those they work with. In 2022 alone, volunteers at free tax clinics in Huron County and Grand Bend filed over 1,000 returns, resulting in a staggering $1.7 million in returns and benefits.
“We appreciate so much the work that volunteers have done on this service over the years, which is why we want to lend UWPH’s voice to help raise awareness. We encourage anyone who doesn’t normally file taxes, or who may meet the criteria, to take advantage of this service or talk to a tax clinic volunteer,” added Crane. “Some clinics even help with filing returns over multiple years.”
To find out about the nearest tax clinic, call or visit 211. If you are owed money, you can file taxes at any time of year. It isn't too late. Some tax clinics can even help file taxes at any time during the year.
There are significant portions of Perth County and Stratford in dire need of volunteers to get clinics started in these underserved areas. If you are interested in learning more about volunteering with the tax clinics in a variety of roles, please contact [email protected].
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