I need some help getting started on taxes.?

Question

I recently found out that my boyfriend whom I live with, and have for the last 2 years has never filed a tax return... and he is 27. I usually do my own taxes so I think I can tackle his, how do I get previous T4 slips and information about education credits (he went to university) from years ago, where do I get tax forms for previous years...and what else do I need to know!?

Answer 1

In the US - www.irs.gov is a remarkable resource.....you can even order tax forms for a few years back - which would help....Since you are speaking of T4 slips - I am assuming you are in another country...I would find the Federal Taxation Office and inquire with them??

Answer 2

Previous T4s you can definitely get from the CRA.  however you'll either need him to make the request, or have him name you an authorized representative so you can deal with the CRA on his behalf.

For the education credits try the university.  I'm not sure if they're required to file a copy with the CRA but it may be an option to ask the CRA as well.

Also if you've been living together for two years the CRA will view your tax status as common law in the tax year where you celebrated one year living together.

Answer 3

Good day eh !

Nice to be Canadian. You  will have some issues getting old T4's and education slips.  But there is good news CCRA most likely already has all your boyfriends T4 slips.  For the education slips you will need to contact the universities and see if they can issues you new ones (they can charge for this)

For old tax return forms  go to the following site

http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/individuals...

IMPORTANT to know before filing, if it appears that your boyfriend owes money, what you may want to do is contact CCRA and discuss doing a voluntary disclosure BEFORE filing the returns.  You may be able to get CCRA to waive the interest and penalties (or at least one of them).  Get this in writing.   If you've calculated refunds not such a big issue.

You also have a 2nd issue.  Since you have been living together for over two years you should be filing as common law.  This could affect your returns over the last 2 years.  

Not that I would suggest it, but have you really been living together for 2 years, or did you just start living together and now you are just helping him out hint hint hint

Answer 4

I'm not sure what resources there are in Canada, but one resource that US taxpayers can check out is http://filelate.com