Canada’s federal revenue agency, the CRA, is stepping up its efforts to recover funds that were thoughtlessly doled out by the Trudeau government during the pandemic. That includes CERB, CRB, and CRCB benefits that have now totaled more than $9 billion.

Betting on debtors’ good faith hasn’t worked, and since July, the CRA has been sending out warnings about possible legal action. These actions include withdrawing the debt from a bank account or deducting it from wages. However, the CRA has stressed that such action will only be taken against those who are unresponsive, uncooperative, and have the financial ability to pay. Agency spokesperson Sylvia Branch said the goal is to encourage people to contact the CRA to work together to resolve their debt, ensuring a fair and acceptable process for everyone.

The tax authority is also ready to support those who cannot pay their debt, offering them to get in touch to develop an action plan.

Anastasia Chupina