Starting to prepare the tax return
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Logging into UFile
Before you start preparing tax returns, make sure you always enter your user information in the software. Refer to How to set up the software and start a new file in the UFile Overview section. You will need the following information on hand:
- your EFILE number and password
- information about your organization:
- name
- city
- CVITP Organization Identification Number (COIN), if provided
If you’re sharing a computer with other volunteers, verify the setup at the start of every shift to ensure your information is used when you are preparing tax returns.
For more information and instructions, refer to EFILE-NetFile setup.
Preparing the tax return
After gathering the individual’s information and forms, you can start to prepare their return.
- For help with common tax topics and information, go to Tax guide for volunteers.
- For help with navigating the tax software, go to UFile overview.
Once you have prepared the return, you will need to send the return to the CRA.
- For electronic returns, you will need to complete section II of form TIS60.
- For paper returns, you will need to provide the individual with a paper copy to send in the mail to the CRA.
Paper tax returns
If you prepare paper tax returns:
- add all box numbers for the same type of income slips and enter the totals on the applicable lines on the paper return (for example, add up the amounts in box 14 for all of an individual's T4 slips and enter the total on line 10100)
- ensure the individual signs the tax return at the bottom of page 8
- enter a 1 in box 48700 at the bottom of page 8 of the tax return to indicate that it was prepared by a volunteer; this field is automatically completed when the return is prepared using UFile CVITP
- attach all completed schedules, information slips, required forms, and receipts
- instruct the individual to mail their paper tax return to the applicable tax centre
- remind the individual to mail their return by the filing deadline to avoid possible late filing penalties or delays in the processing of their benefit payments
If an individual wants to know when they can reasonably expect to receive their notice of assessment, you can refer to service standards in the CRA for the most current timeframes.
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