February 2020 – Bay Seniors

February 15, 2020February 15, 2020

Your tax questions answered by CRA: January meeting follow-up

Now that they aren’t available in post offices, where can we order paper copies of tax guides or forms?
Orders placed for the 2019 Income tax package will be shipped during the week of February 17, 2020.

To order these, go to: Order forms and publications or call CRA’s General Inquires at 1-800-622-6232 TTY: 1-800-926-9105.

What medical expenses can I claim, and how can I maximize the tax benefits of these?
Go here for full details: medical expenses

Is there additional help and information for those who are self-employed or own a small business?
Yes! The CRA offers free one-to-one visits and group seminars for small businesses and self-employed individuals across Canada through its Liaison Officer Service. You can request more information or an appointment here: Canada.ca/liaison-officer

Where can I get software for filing my taxes online?
Go here to find software for filing returns: Certified software for the 2019 NETFILE program

Reminder from Melissa:
“As I mentioned at your meeting, through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, community organizations host free tax clinics, where volunteers file tax returns for eligible people. For more information go to Free tax clinics or call 1-855-516-4405.”

February 13, 2020April 5, 2020

UPDATE: CANCELLED – Bay Expo registration for exhibitors and vendors now open

UPDATE: Due to COVID-19, Bay Expo 2020 has been cancelled. Read more here.

Bay Expo is accepting registrations for area businesses, crafters and not-for-profits to participate in this year’s Expo, taking place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 9 at the Estabrooks Community Hall in Lewis Lake.

Carl Breckenridge, who co-chairs the event’s organizing committee with Patrick Charlton, said, “We have volunteers calling on area businesses, but many home-based businesses and crafters have historically reached out to us to register.” Breckenridge adds that exhibit and vendor space sold out last year, “so those interested in participating may want to get in touch soon.”

Changes for this year’s Expo that will be of interest to exhibitors include wider aisles, improved table space and increased social media.

Bay Expo, which has been held annually since 2014, is put on by the Seniors Association of St. Margaret’s Bay. The event showcases services, products and programs offered in the Bay area, and includes exhibits from service providers and not-for-profits, as well as items for sale by local businesses and crafters. Bay Expo attracts visitors of all ages, and last year Breckenridge says over 500 community members came through the door.

The event also includes a flea market, used book sale, children’s activities and snacks, as well as a silent auction. Breckenridge notes that local businesses have been generous in supporting the silent auction. Businesses donating items to the silent auction will be acknowledged in signage beside each item. Breckenridge says “tabletop items are preferred, as these can be better displayed and are popular with bidders.”

Prospective sponsors, exhibitors, vendors and auction item donors can get more information at bayexpo@bayseniors.ca or by visiting bayseniors.ca/bayexpo