Help is on the way for those dreading tax season in Foothills-area communities.

The Town of Okotoks' Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) is now open for appointments.

It's a free program that provides assistance with simple tax returns for residents of Okotoks, Diamond Valley and Foothills County.

The CVITP is a collaboration between the town's Family Community Support Services (FCSS), and the Canada Revenue Agency.

In 2023, eight volunteers assisted 287 clients to complete 320 returns, according to figures provided by the town.

Last year's program saw $1.87 million in government benefits/refunds to residents.

There is an income threshold to qualify for the program based on the number of family members.

  • 1 Person - $35,000
  • 2 People - $45,000
  • 3 People - $47,500
  • 4 People - $50,000
  • 5 People -$52,500 (Add $2,500 for each additional person)

Some tax situations are also ineligible for the program, including returns for deceased clients, self-employment income or expenses, and business or rental income and expenses.

Volunteers are trained by the Canada Revenue Agency and screened through the Okotoks Volunteer Resource Centre.

More information on the program can be found on the town's website.

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