North Island-Powell River MP To Help Seniors With Taxes

A petition is underway to support a motion brought to Ottawa from North Island MP Rachel Blaney on new assistance for seniors.

A petition is underway to support a motion brought to Ottawa from North Island MP Rachel Blaney on new assistance for seniors.

Blaney says seniors who missed their income tax deadline need help with red tape.

She's asked the government to require the Minister of Employment and Social Development to estimate the income of pensioners who are unable to make the required statement for up to one year and provide information and resources to pensioners, so they are not prevented from accessing vital services due to paperwork requirements.

Blaney says too many seniors are prevented from obtaining essential assistance because of daunting paperwork requirements, illness, or other factors beyond their control.

In a statement, Blaney points to having already successfully pressured the government into action on behalf of seniors, securing $742.4 million for Canadian seniors who were affected by the GIS claw back in 2021.

She has also introduced Motion M-72, requesting a national seniors strategy to ensure the government meets seniors needs as they age.

You can find Blaney's petition to support the motion by visiting https://rachelblaney.ndp.ca/amendment-to-the-old-age-security-act