As announced by the Ministère des Finances, Revenu Québec confirms that it will not impose any penalties or interest on citizens who file their tax returns or pay their tax balance after the legal deadline of April 30, 2021, but no later than May 31, 2021. This new measure is designed to make life easier for Quebecers who have been hard hit by the COVID-19 crisis.
The deadline for filing the tax return and paying the tax balance for the 2020 tax year remains Friday, April 30, 2021, at 11:59 pm. However, no late-filing penalty will be applied to citizens who are unable to meet this deadline, and no interest will be charged on a 2020 tax balance for the period from May1 to May 31, 2021.
Penalties may apply for tax returns filed after Monday, May 31, 2021. Interest will be charged on the unpaid tax balance on May 31, starting June 1, 2021, except for citizens who benefit from the one-year interest vacation because they received financial support benefits related to COVID-19.
This relaxation measure is in response to the exceptional health situation that continues to develop in Quebec. It is intended to give Quebecers affected by the COVID-19 crisis more time to assume their fiscal responsibilities.
So far, Revenu Québec notes that Quebecers have already filed their tax returns in large numbers. As of April 14, Revenu Québec had received 3,330,000 tax returns, a pace similar to that of previous years.
Revenu Québec is encouraging Quebecers to file their tax returns electronically, thanks to ImpôtNet Québec. This service enables citizens to file their tax returns online using certified software. Quebecers who use it can receive their tax refunds up to twice as fast.
It’s in everyone’s interest to file their tax returns quickly, so they can get the money they’re entitled to. Last year, 60% of individuals who filed a tax return received a tax refund.
A FEW TIPS
Before you get started, Revenu Québec offers a few tips:
- Find out about the main changes for the 2020 tax year.
- Gather all the necessary information and documents (social insurance number, statements, supporting documents, previous year’s notice of assessment, etc.).
- To receive your refund faster, sign up for direct deposit and make sure your bank details are up to date by visiting the secure My Account area.
- Get answers to the most frequently asked questions on Revenu Québec’s recently launched microsite for citizens. You can also consult the Frequently asked questions for citizens.
- Submit your declaration on time to avoid penalties.
- Find out more about the Tax Assistance Service – Volunteer Program, which may be able to provide you with the support you need to obtain the funds to which you are entitled. Once again this year, the program’s services can be provided by videoconference or telephone, or by means of an envelope system adapted to current health measures.
Don’t hesitate to contact customer service for assistance.
ADMINISTRATIVE FLEXIBILITY
From the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Revenu Québec has been committed to showing flexibility and understanding towards citizens and businesses affected by the crisis. Several measures announced last year have been renewed this year.
- Citizens who have received assistance benefits related to COVID-19, such as the Canada Emergency Benefit (CEP), the Canada Student Emergency Benefit (CSEB) or the Essential Workers Retention Incentive Program (EWRIP), and whose total taxable income is $75,000 or less, will not have to pay interest on their 2020 tax balance for one year.
- Citizens who use the services of a tax preparer can affix an electronic signature to form TP-1000.TE to authorize the preparer to file an income tax return on their behalf. This measure helps to limit the administrative procedures that the signature requirement imposes on certain individuals.
- Revenu Québec is granting all beneficiaries an extension until April 30, 2021, to renew their application for advance payments of the home support tax credit (CMD). In the meantime, advance payments will continue.
DEDUCTIONS FOR TELEWORKERS
Revenu Québec is also proposing a simplified flat-rate method to help Quebecers deduct telecommuting expenses incurred as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. When filing their income tax returns, citizens can opt for a fixed deduction of $2 per day of home telecommuting, up to a maximum threshold of $400 for the year 2020.
This method is designed to simplify procedures for the thousands of citizens who have worked from home in recent months. In particular, it will save them the hassle of tracking down invoices.
Some individuals may find it more advantageous to use the itemized method to deduct telecommuting expenses. To do so, they will need to keep receipts and supporting documents. In addition, their employer must complete form TP-64.3 General Conditions of Employment.
(source: Revenu Québec )
