Free tax clinics return to western Manitoba
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A free volunteer-run tax program that returned more than $10 million to residents across western Manitoba last year is gearing up again for the 2026 tax season.
The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), offered in partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency and Prairie Mountain Health (PMH), helps low-income individuals with simple tax situations complete and file their income tax and benefit returns at no cost.
In 2025, volunteers across the PMH region processed 4,350 returns, resulting in more than $10 million in benefits and refunds for residents. The average refund per client was about $3,500.
Organizers say filing a tax return is often the gateway to accessing critical income supports, including GST credits, the Canada Child Benefit, Manitoba Rent Assist, disability tax credits and Pharmacare deductibles.
“Income and health are directly related,” PMH notes in background information about the program. “Better income can lead to better health, education and well-being.”
The program is aimed at individuals and families with modest incomes and straightforward tax situations. Eligibility thresholds include single individuals earning under $35,000, two-person households earning under $45,000 and three-person households earning under $47,500, with an additional $2,500 allowed per dependent.
Those with business or self-employment income, rental income, capital gains, farm income, bankruptcy filings or investment income over $1,000 are not eligible.
In Brandon, tax returns can be dropped off at the 7th Street Health Access Centre beginning Feb. 23 through Oct. 30, Monday to Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Brandon Minor Injury and Illness Clinic will also offer appointment-based service on Mondays from March 2 to April 27.
Outside Brandon, the service will be available at 29 locations across the PMH region, including sites in Dauphin, Neepawa, Virden, Swan River-area communities and others that will accept drop-offs beginning March 2. Hours vary by location.
Last year, 26 volunteers supported the program region-wide, including 14 in Brandon and 12 in rural communities.
Participants are asked to bring all relevant tax slips, such as T3, T4, T4A, T5 and T5007 forms, along with receipts for daycare, charitable donations, rent, tuition and eligible medical expenses.
Organizers say the service not only helps individuals avoid filing costs, but also ensures vulnerable residents continue receiving benefits they may otherwise miss.
» Winnipeg Sun