Feedback needed - negotiating with CRA
My friend B. went through a period of indiscretion in the nineties and did not pay enough income tax. Part of this was driven by multiple disabilities, including mental and physical illness, and active alcoholism/addiction.
This friend sobered and went to work full time for ten years. They made several attempts to reconcile the matter, also requesting a fairness consideration for disabilities. It didn't get resolved, but they didn't get an income tax refund during that time, either.
Excepting active addiction, these disabilities recurred in 2015, and B. lost his job. He has not been able to work since and is undergoing extensive physical and psychiatric therapy. His prognosis is not good.
CRA finally sent a 5-digit bill 2 weeks ago. 75% of this is penalty and interest.
B. will make restitution to the best of his ability, and has started volunteering payments. However as part of accommodating his disabilities, he would like to deal with a reasonable human being, and to examine the damage objectively in light of his ability to pay.
Is there an elegant way of discussing the matter and negotiating with the CRA? Inputs are appreciated.
This friend sobered and went to work full time for ten years. They made several attempts to reconcile the matter, also requesting a fairness consideration for disabilities. It didn't get resolved, but they didn't get an income tax refund during that time, either.
Excepting active addiction, these disabilities recurred in 2015, and B. lost his job. He has not been able to work since and is undergoing extensive physical and psychiatric therapy. His prognosis is not good.
CRA finally sent a 5-digit bill 2 weeks ago. 75% of this is penalty and interest.
B. will make restitution to the best of his ability, and has started volunteering payments. However as part of accommodating his disabilities, he would like to deal with a reasonable human being, and to examine the damage objectively in light of his ability to pay.
Is there an elegant way of discussing the matter and negotiating with the CRA? Inputs are appreciated.