View Full Version : Canadian back taxes and spousal obligation
bluelady
May 12, 2009, 10:30 AM
I live in Saskatchewan. Spouse has not filed taxes for a long time and now CRA is assessing him. I received Requirement to Pay. We were separated for 8 yrs. And got back together in 2005 because I had a stroke and unable to work now. I have no income. My spouse comes and goes as he likes but we live under same roof when he is here. He does not have his own bank acct. because of fear of CRA seizure of funds thus bills are paid through my chequing. Got this notice and yesterday a call from CRA rep explaining it to me. Threw me into a tizzy because I don't need to be stressing and it sounds like they will mess with MY bank account now. A number of issues involved but main immediate one is why should I be required to pay ANYTHING if we are married?
bluelady
May 12, 2009, 10:39 AM
Sorry, didn't realize this is US only. Sure hard to find info about Cdn stuff...
danielnoahsmommy
May 12, 2009, 10:42 AM
Not us only!
JudyKayTee
May 12, 2009, 10:43 AM
This isn't only the US - it's all over the World. What is your question?
JudyKayTee
May 12, 2009, 10:45 AM
He has not filed tax returns at all? Have you? Are they alleging fail to file as a fraud?
If the checking account is in your name but contains his funds and the purpose is to avoid judgments, taxes or some other type of fraud, yes, the authorities can come after you.
Not sure I got it all right - is that your question?
NeedKarma
May 12, 2009, 10:45 AM
Lots of stuff here: Canada Revenue Agency (http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/menu-e.html)
From a fellow Canuck. :)
bluelady
May 12, 2009, 10:47 AM
Don't know where my post went?? Main question was.. in Canada... what are my obligations as a spouse of someone who owes Revenue Canada money because I have received a "Requirement to Pay"?
JudyKayTee
May 12, 2009, 10:48 AM
Answered on your other thread - basically, need more info. In general - if it is HIS income, if HE didn't file, it is HIS problem.
However, his use of your checking account to avoid being caught could be fraud.
bluelady
May 12, 2009, 10:59 AM
Fraud? Ouch... he deposits money in my account so that bills can be paid...
Curlyben
May 12, 2009, 11:05 AM
>Threads Merged<
JudyKayTee
May 12, 2009, 11:21 AM
Fraud? Ouch...he deposits money in my account so that bills can be paid...
He has the ability to open his own checking account, pay his own bills, write his own checks, and not get you involved in his legal problems.
In your own words: "because of fear of CRA seizure of funds thus bills are paid thru my chequing." This is not just depositing money in your account so bills can be paid.
I would remove myself from any and all risk.
bluelady
May 12, 2009, 11:50 AM
I've told him as much. Removed any payments on "his behalf" from my acct. however, he is my spouse and is he not allowed to give me the money to pay phone bills, gas bills, etc. (that are in my name for our "matromonial" home). As far as the govt. is concerned we are a married cpl... even when we were separated... I had plenty of battles with them about that! I think I finally convinced him that it's time for bankruptcy.. cos this is getting ridiculous and RevCan DOES NOT negotiate with anyone anyway.. even when they are in the wrong.. which is what caused this debacle in the first place. But we are 60 now with no pensions, no credit, no assets and poor health.. and no money to hire lawyers to fight for us... and I can't take the stress... But have appreciated your insight on the matter...
JudyKayTee
May 12, 2009, 12:22 PM
What a mess and I understand the stress. I don't understand why he isn't allowed to just give you money to pay the bills.
I'm sorry you've found yourself in this position. Wish I could think of some wise, wonderful solution but, so far - zip!