Skip to main content

Featured

G7 Foreign Ministers Meet in Niagara to Hear Ukraine’s Plea Amid Escalating War

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven (G7) nations gathered in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario , for high-stakes talks with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister as Russia intensifies its assault on Ukraine’s power grid. The meeting, hosted by Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand , comes at a critical moment as rolling blackouts sweep across Ukraine ahead of winter. Foreign ministers from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the European Union posed for a family photo before beginning discussions. Ukraine’s foreign minister is expected to brief the group on the humanitarian and security consequences of Russia’s latest attacks, which have left millions vulnerable to freezing temperatures. The summit is not limited to Ukraine. Ministers are also addressing broader geopolitical challenges, including instability in the Middle East and shifting trade relationships. Still, Ukraine remains the centerpiece of the agenda, with G7 leaders reaffirming ...
Post a Comment
Read more

article

Labels

CRA Ramps Up Legal Action to Recover COVID Benefit Overpayments

 

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is intensifying its efforts to reclaim overpayments related to pandemic benefits. With more than $9 billion still owed, the agency is taking decisive steps to recoup funds from ineligible recipients.

Starting this July, the CRA will issue legal warnings and employ various means to recover overpayments. These actions may include garnishing wages or withdrawing funds directly from bank accounts. However, the agency emphasizes that it will only pursue legal action against individuals who haven’t responded or cooperated and have the financial capacity to repay.

“Our primary goal is to encourage individuals to contact us so we can work together to find the best way to resolve their debt, ensuring a fair and manageable process for everyone,” says CRA spokeswoman Sylvie Branch.

The CRA remains committed to supporting Canadians who genuinely cannot repay their debt. If you’re facing financial challenges, reach out to the agency to explore repayment options.

Overpayment Breakdown

The CRA is currently seeking approximately $9.53 billion in repayments from ineligible recipients. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB): $5.41 billion
  • Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB): $2.67 billion
  • Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit: $1.25 billion

Efforts to recover overpayments began in May 2022, with letters encouraging voluntary payments. Last year, the CRA escalated its collection efforts, including phone outreach and automatic offsetting of tax refunds and benefits against outstanding debts.

While recipients can request reviews of eligibility conclusions, the CRA’s information typically leaves little room for debate. Most issues are clear-cut.

Remember, if you’ve received pandemic-related benefits and suspect an overpayment, it’s essential to engage with the CRA promptly to find a resolution.



Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment