It's that time of year when everyone is rushing around looking for tax slips, filling in tax returns, and finding out how much of a refund they have coming back (or, horror of horrors, how much they have to pay). Many people have very simple tax returns, with just a T-4 and a few charitable donations. Even so, completing an income tax return can be a daunting prospect.

The Canada Revenue Agency (also known as CRA) provides some help with tax return preparation at this time of year through its volunteer clinics held across the country. These clinics are free to use. To take advantage of these clinics, you must have a low income and your tax return must be "simple". If you qualify, the volunteer program can be a great help to you if you are numerically challenged.

On the other hand, there are those who have a basic understanding of the tax system and want to help others. Each year the CRA looks for people who can volunteer their time and efforts to lend a hand in the volunteer clinics. Volunteering this year is closed, but keep it in mind for next year if you are interested.mortgage calculator