Statement by the Taxpayers’ Ombudsman on the release of the CFIB’s latest CRA Report Card

“I commend the CFIB on their sixth report card on CRA’s services to small businesses. Small businesses are the backbone of a thriving economy and any time spent dealing with government is time lost from working hard to make their businesses successful.

A particular area of concern for me is the large increase reported in the overall administrative burden businesses expressed they face when dealing with their tax obligations. This generates a cost of compliance and may impact their right to timely, clear and accessible service.

I echo the CFIB’s recommendation on ensuring CRA rules and rulings are communicated in plain language. All Canadians have the right to receive communications from the CRA that are clear and easy to understand.

Through this survey, CFIB members who responded sent a clear message to me and my Office. We will continue to raise awareness of the service we provide and of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, since a majority of survey respondents were unaware of both. To this end, I call on all small businesses who feel their service rights have been negatively affected to call my office for person-to-person assistance.

Although the CRA received the grade of C, the same as in the last report card, I feel they can do better. I believe the recommendations made through my systemic examination reports, the recent Auditor General report and this report card, will assist the CRA in its work to ensure it is more responsive to the needs of taxpayers. To support our common goal of improving service to taxpayers, my Office will continue to engage the CRA in open communication in recognition of taxpayer rights, mutual respect, and fairness.”