Dont' worry, you're not in trouble.
Contrary to phone messages and emails many are receiving at this time of year, they are not facing criminal charges as a result of owing unpaid income tax.
If you've received such a message, it's from a fraud artist trying to separate you from your hard-earned money. Whatever you do, don't call back or reply to the message.
Instead, report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, either online through antifraudcentre.ca or by calling 1-888-495-8501.
As to whether you really do owe any money, you can double check with the CRA by calling 1-800-959-8281 or using the agency's "My Account" service online.
Also, the CRA will never use aggressive or threatening language, threaten you with arrest or send police, ask for payments via prepaid credit cards or gift cards, collect or distribute payments through Interac e-transfer or use text messages to communicate under any circumstances.
As well, emails from the CRA never ask for financial information and never provide financial information.
The deadline for filing income tax is April 30.
