CRA has the authority to enforce tax laws in a fair, transparent, and respectful manner.
HAVE YOU BEEN:
Harassed
Intimidated
Threatened
Harassment by the CRA is strictly prohibited, and any such behavior would be considered a violation of a taxpayer’s rights. Here are some examples of actions that could be perceived as harassment if taken to an extreme or used inappropriately:
Excessive Communication: Repeated and unnecessary phone calls, emails, or letters from CRA officials may be considered harassment.
Abuse of Power: The misuse of the CRA’s authority to intimidate or threaten a taxpayer would be considered harassment.
Unreasonable Requests: The CRA cannot make unreasonable or excessive demands for information or documentation beyond what is necessary for a tax audit or assessment.
Public Disclosure of Tax Information: Unauthorized disclosure of an individual’s or business’s tax information to the public or unauthorized third parties would be a severe violation.
False Accusations: Accusing a taxpayer of tax evasion or fraud without proper evidence or due process could be seen as harassment.
Invasion of Privacy: Unauthorized access to a taxpayer’s personal or financial information or conducting intrusive surveillance would be considered harassment.
If you feel that your have been treated unfairly. We are here to listen to your experience
DID YOU KNOW? You can request your entire file, see who’s looking at your file? Requests can be made through the Access to Information Privacy Directorate, you can request paper form and digital form which may include the Canada Revenue Agency diary notes. Form RC378
Access to Information and Privacy Directorate Contact:
- 613-960-5393 (Ottawa area)
- 1-866-333-5402 (toll free)
Email: ATIP-AIPRP@cra-arc.gc.ca
Remaining calm and having patience is very important while discussing your concerns within the Canada Revenue Agency
If you disagree with the CRA, appealing the decision could take up to 30 months to be assigned to an Appeals Officer that is active with up to 20 files
Be accurate, patient and courteous. Is your request taken more than 7 days and you haven’t heard anything? Submit a service complaint with Service Complaint Form RC193
Need More Help? Contact the Canada Revenue Agency Ombudsman 1-866-586-3839
All employees follow their policy and procedure.
PROTECT YOURSELF
Privacy Protection: Making your own photocopies ensures that sensitive information, such as tax returns, financial statements, and personal identification documents, remains in your possession. This reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access or mishandling by employees who may come into contact with your documents.
Document Integrity: By creating your photocopies, you can verify the accuracy and completeness of the copies before providing them to anyone who requires them, such as tax professionals or government agencies. This helps ensure that the information presented is consistent and accurate.
Document Retention: Taxpayers are generally responsible for retaining copies of their financial records and tax-related documents for several years. By making your own photocopies, you maintain control over the retention and organization of these documents, reducing the risk of loss or misplacement.
Reduced Dependency: Depending on the organization or individuals handling your documents to make copies introduces an element of dependency and trust. While most professionals and agencies handle documents responsibly, taking control of the photocopying process can provide peace of mind and a sense of security.
Convenience and Timeliness: Making your own photocopies can be more convenient and time-efficient. You can do this at your own pace and as soon as documents are generated, rather than relying on others to provide copies when needed.
Risk Mitigation: In the rare event that an employee or third party mishandles your documents, having your own copies can serve as a backup to resolve disputes or discrepancies.
Compliance with Privacy Regulations: In some cases, privacy regulations or policies may require individuals to have control over their documents and information. Making your own photocopies ensures compliance with such regulations.