Federal government COVID-19 economic response plan

On March 18, 2020, the federal government made an announcement to postpone the due date of certain 2019 tax filings as part of their COVID-19 economic response plan.

Tax filing deadlines for federal returns:

There are various other federally required returns and forms with specific due dates that have currently not been extended; such as: T5013 Partnership information return, GST34 GST/HST return, etc. If you have a return or form that is filed late and the due date has not been extended under the COVID-19 economic response plan, penalties may still apply.

All taxpayers (individuals, trusts and corporations) will be able to defer the payment of any income tax amounts that become due on or after March 18, 2020 and before September 1, 2020. This relief would apply to tax balances due as well as installments, under Part I of the Income Tax Act. No interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period. This relief from interest or penalties does not currently apply to tax balances or installments, such as: GST or HST balance or installments, payroll deductions, Part IV tax, etc. 

For situations not covered under the COVID-19 economic response plan where interest and penalties are assessed, you can complete form RC4288 “Request for Taxpayer Relief – cancel or Waive Penalties or Interest”. 

Another important measure announced today relates to the ability to electronically sign CRA required e-file authorization forms. In order to reduce the necessity for taxpayers and tax preparers to meet in person during this difficult time, and to reduce administrative burden, effective immediately the Canada Revenue Agency will recognize electronic signatures. This will be a temporary administrative measure to allow the authorization forms T183 or T183CORP to be signed electronically. This will allow taxpayers the ability to authorize the filing of a tax return without the need to physically sign the authorization form. 

The COVID-19 economic response plan is continuously evolving as the government responds to this crisis. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.