Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Your Bank Account: How to Deal with Problems

People’s Law School

Most of us open a bank account at some point in our lives. Learn the rights (and responsibilities) that come with having a bank account, practical tips to protect yourself, and how to work out problems.

Last reviewed April 2024
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Paying Income Tax

People’s Law School

Helps you understand your tax return and how income taxes work, including who has to pay and what income is not taxable. It explains the deadline for filing, and explains what tax information you need. It links to a tool to estimate your income tax obligation. It also provides information on what you can do if you disagree with your assessment.

Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

If You Invest and Something Goes Wrong

People’s Law School

Explains your rights and steps you can take if you invest and things go sideways. Topics include what problems can arise when you invest, hiring an investment advisor, and the differences between investing in a public or a private company.

Last reviewed April 2024
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Taxes When You Retire or Turn 65 Years Old

Canada Revenue Agency

Provides tax information that may affect you when you retire, including the types of income you might receive, as well as deductions and credits you can claim.

Last reviewed March 2024
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Taxes and Benefits for Indigenous Peoples

Canada Revenue Agency

This website has information about tax benefits and requirements that apply to Indigenous peoples. Indigenous peoples are subject to the same tax rules as other Canadian residents unless their income is eligible for the tax exemption under section 87 of the Indian Act.

Last reviewed March 2024
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Individual Tax Enquiries Line

Canada Revenue Agency

Call 1-800-959-8281 to request a remittance voucher and to check the status of your tax returns, your tax account balance, and how much in RRSP contributions you can deduct on your current tax return year.

Last reviewed March 2024
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Free Tax Clinics

Canada Revenue Agency

Canada Revenue Agency and community organizations host tax preparation clinics and arrange for volunteers to prepare tax returns for eligible individuals. Lists all volunteer tax clinics in communities across BC.

Last reviewed March 2024
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Child Disability Benefit

Canada Revenue Agency

Explains what the child disability benefit is, who can receive it, how to apply for it, how it’s calculated, and what the tax implications are.

Last reviewed March 2024
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Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

Canada Revenue Agency

The Canada child benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help them with the cost of raising children under 18 years old. The CCB might include the child disability benefit and any related provincial and territorial programs.

Last reviewed March 2024
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British Columbia Newcomers’ Guide to Resources and Services

WelcomeBC (Government of BC)

Moving to a new country can be challenging. You probably have a number of questions that need to be answered right away. This guide has information on getting a job, finding a place to live, health services, banking, getting a driver’s licence, the legal system, and much more.

Last reviewed March 2024