CRA’s Volunteer Program – P.E.I. Locals Needed for Free Tax Help

Published On: December 16, 2025

With tax season around the corner, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is once again preparing to launch its free tax-filing initiative — the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP).

Aimed at helping Islanders with modest incomes, this volunteer-driven program takes the stress out of tax season for thousands across Prince Edward Island. But for 2025, the program is in urgent need of new volunteers, especially in eastern P.E.I.

Purpose

The goal of the program is simple: provide free, easy, and accessible tax filing help to those who may not otherwise be able to afford it. Whether you’re dealing with a stack of T-slips or just unsure of your tax credits, volunteers make it easier to get through the process.

Last year alone, over 270 volunteers helped bring in more than $13.5 million in refunds, credits, and benefits for P.E.I. residents. That’s real money going back into the pockets of people who need it most — all thanks to the time and effort of local volunteers.

Demand

This year, the CRA is putting out a call for help. According to CRA spokesperson Jamie Jackson, while volunteer numbers are needed across P.E.I., there’s a particular shortage in Kings County.

“In Kings County, we’ve grown over the years to offer tax help close to home,” Jackson said. “But we still need more hands on deck, especially in rural areas.”

Charlottetown, being the largest population centre, also needs more volunteers. Whether you’re comfortable with tax forms or just want to lend a friendly face at the door, there’s a role for everyone.

Roles

Think you need to be a math wizard or accountant to help? Not at all. The program needs people for a variety of tasks, including:

Preparing tax returns
Greeting and checking in clients
Scheduling appointments
Organizing documents

Jackson pointed out that tax clinics are about more than numbers. “You’ll often see a warm smile greeting people at the door. That’s just as important as filing the taxes.”

Volunteers go through a full screening process and receive free, detailed training. The CRA wants to have all volunteer spots filled by mid-January to ensure everyone is ready for the rush.

Eligibility

The tax clinics are open to those with modest incomes. Here’s a quick breakdown of who qualifies:

Household Size	Maximum Income
1 person	$40,000
Couple	$55,000
Couple + 1 child	$60,000
Couple + 2 children	$65,000
Add $5,000 per person	+ $5,000

However, there’s some wiggle room. “We don’t want to turn anyone away,” Jackson emphasized. Organizations can be flexible depending on circumstances, especially when families are facing financial hardship.

Access

There are two main ways Islanders can use the program:

Drop-off locations – You can leave your documents at designated clinics.
Walk-in clinics – Visit during listed hours and get your taxes done in-person.

To find a clinic near you or to sign up as a volunteer, visit the CRA website or call 1-866-837-1531.

Timing

The tax-filing deadline for most people is April 30. If you’re self-employed, you have until June 15, though any taxes owed are still due by the end of April.

The earlier volunteers sign up, the more time they have to train and get comfortable with the systems in place. Plus, it ensures that clinics are fully staffed and ready to help as many people as possible.

Giving

For anyone who’s been looking for a way to give back, this is it. You don’t need special qualifications or tax experience. All you need is a willingness to help others through something that can often feel overwhelming.

Whether you’re tech-savvy, organized, or just great at making people feel comfortable, your time can make a big difference for someone navigating their finances.