Free CRA Tax Session for Students: How to File and Claim Benefits

What this means for you: If you are a student or have never filed taxes before, you might be leaving money on the table. A new free event can teach you exactly how to file your return and claim benefits you are owed.

Filing taxes in Canada can be confusing, especially for international students or those doing it for the first time. However, filing is the only way to get tax refunds and access to government benefits like the GST/HST credit or the Canada Carbon Rebate.

A student-led group called the PennyJar Initiative is stepping in to help. They are hosting a session called "Taxes with CRA" to make the process easier.

The Event Details

The session is designed to help beginners and intermediates navigate the tax system correctly.

• Date: April 1
• Time: 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Mountain Standard Time)
• Location: Online (Microsoft Teams)
• Cost: Free
• Speaker: Bonnie McIntyre from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

What Will Be Covered

This session is not just about filling out forms; it is about understanding what you owe and what you can get back. The event will cover:

• Key Tax Credits: How to claim credits for tuition, textbooks, and interest paid on student loans.
• Government Benefits: A look at benefits that students often miss, such as the GST/HST credit.
• Filing Deadlines: Important dates you need to know to avoid penalties.
• Free Resources: Where to find help if you get stuck later on.

Who is Affected

This event is specifically targeted at:

• Post-Secondary Students: Those attending university or college who need to claim tuition credits.
• International Students: Newcomers to Canada who may be unfamiliar with the Canadian tax system.
• Beginners: Anyone filing a tax return for the first time who wants guidance from an expert.

What You Should Do

If you need help with your taxes this season, follow these steps:

1. Register for the Event: You must sign up to join the Microsoft Teams meeting. Check the PennyJar Initiative’s social media or website for the registration link.
2. Mark Your Calendar: Set a reminder for April 1 at 4:30 p.m. MST.
3. Gather Your Documents: Before the session, try to locate your T4 slip (employment income), T2202 (tuition), and any receipts for rent or medical expenses.
4. Prepare Questions: Since this is an educational session, write down any specific questions you have about your situation to ask during the Q&A portion.

Bonus Event: Investing Panel

If you are interested in growing your money after you file your taxes, the PennyJar Initiative is hosting a second event.

• Event: Investing Panel
• Date: March 31
• Location: University of Calgary (In-person)
• Cost: $6 – $10

This panel will discuss financial literacy and investing basics for students.

Bottom Line

Filing taxes is essential for students to get refunds and benefits. The "Taxes with CRA" session on April 1 offers a free, expert-led way to learn how to file correctly. If you are a student or a beginner, registering for this online session is a smart move to ensure you don't miss out on the money you are owed.

Source: The Gauntlet