Underwater Part II: Additional Taxpayer Relief From The CRA?

The recent announcement by Ministers Shea and Kenney yesterday in a press release (the "Press Release") is much welcomed by Albertans as the Province has been hit by the worst flooding in its recent history.  However, the Press Release is ambiguous as to exactly which taxpayers and what filings will qualify for the relief measures announced.  See our blog of June 26, 2013 for detailed information on the taxpayer relief provisions.

The Press Release states that "taxpayers affected by flooding in Alberta will have until August 2, 2013 to file their returns".   The Press Release then states that "the CRA will proactively adjust the due date for all federal business and other returns filed in Alberta that were due during the flooding".  Pursuant to subsection 220(3) of the Income Tax Act and section 281 of the Excise Tax Act, the Minister may extend the time for filing a return.