Lakehead Social Planning Council in Thunder Bay, Ontario, has been helping low-income earners file their income taxes for free since the early 2000s. The organization helped file more than 5,000 tax returns last year.

The director of operations and client services at the Lakehead Social Planning Council in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Kristen Tomcko, says it is important for people to file their income taxes so they can take advantage of the credits and benefits owed to them.

Tomcko says many people struggle to file their income taxes for different reasons, such as high costs, limited literacy, or lack of access to technology. LSPC offers a free tax program so people can get their returns done without worry. Filing taxes can help those in need access benefits like the Canada Child Benefit, Ontario Trillium Benefit, and GST/HST Credit, and help them qualify for other support services.

Running since the early 2000s, LSPC’s free community volunteer income tax program has helped thousands of people each year. Those interested in accessing the free tax filing service can visit the LSPC office in person, call 211 to file over the phone, or drop off their paperwork at the office. Last year alone, more than 5,000 tax returns were filed through the program. More information is available on the LSPC website.

Source: Sarah Law, CBC