A volunteer shows a newcomer how to use a computer in the Welcome Centre

Settlement Services

There are lots of resources to help you get settled in Durham Region. To find the support you need, look at our map of settlement services. You can also visit one of the Durham Welcome Centres.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada logo

COVID-19 Impact on the 2021 Tax Season

The CRA understands that COVID-19 has affected the usual ways that many Canadians, permanent and temporary residents manage their taxes. The CRA is here to guide newcomers through the process and answer questions you may have.

To learn everything newcomers need to know about filing their return, go to canada.ca/taxes-newcomers to find more information on:

  • residency status
  • completing an income tax and benefit return
  • filing your tax return electronically
  • when and how to apply for benefits and credits
  • claiming credits and deductions
  • contacting the CRA for help

Newcomers can also watch a CRA video available in 12 different languages: Benefits and Credits for Newcomers to Canada.

Do you need help filing your taxes?

There are many community organizations that are hosting free virtual tax clinics. Volunteers from the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) may be able to help newcomers complete and file their taxes for free by videoconference, phone, or through a document drop-off arrangement. Find a local CVITP tax clinic on durham.ca. 

Statement from the Durham Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) Council - June 3, 2020

On behalf of the Durham Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) Council, Co-Chairs Councillor Bob Chapman and Commissioner of Planning and Economic Development Brian Bridgeman, provide the following statement:  

Durham’s communities boast a rich diversity of people, of many different backgrounds and identities, of different colours and cultures, speaking many different languages. These differences and more contribute to the strong social and economic fabric of our communities. We acknowledge that racism is a persistent global issue experienced in Durham and in communities across Canada. In Durham Region, we work to build welcoming communities where all residents can belong. Racism and discrimination of any kind do not have a place in the Region of Durham. Let’s celebrate the characteristics, strengths and talents each of us contribute to Durham’s communities. Together we are stronger and together we all belong.

Regional Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of the Health and Social Services Committee, Council for the Region of Durham

Brian Bridgeman, Commissioner of Planning and Economic Development, Regional Municipality of Durham