London businessman fined for not filing tax returns
On January 9, 2009, Morley Brian Haynes of London Ontario, pleaded guilty in the Ontario court of Justice in London Ontario for failing to file income tax returns. Mr. Haynes was charged four times and was fined $1,000 per charge totaling $4,000.
In addition to fines, penalties and interest, individuals and corporations are still required to file past tax returns and pay the amount that is due. Mr. Haynes, was fined for not filing his 2003 and 2004 personal income tax as well as two quarterly GST returns for his business. Mr. Haynes filed the outstanding tax returns after CRA charged him.
Mr. Haynes could have applied under the voluntary disclosure program to avoid penalties and prosecution as long as he was not notified first by CRA. Once CRA contacts the tax payer, it is too late to apply under the voluntary disclosure program. The voluntary disclosure program provides a one time gift to a taxpayer to avoid penalties and prosecution. Under some circumstances, CRA will allow a second application under the program.
