The Tax Chick Podcast More Than Complaints: A Candid Conversation with the Taxpayers' Ombudsperson (Part I)
What happens when the tax system doesn’t work the way it should? Who advocates for taxpayers when service breaks down?
In this special two-part episode, I sit down with François Boileau, the Taxpayers' Ombudsperson for Canada, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about fairness, service delays, vulnerable populations, and the future of tax administration in Canada.
Described by Mr. Boileau as one of the federal government’s “best-kept secrets,” the Office of the Taxpayers’ Ombudsperson plays a critical role in reviewing unresolved service complaints involving the Canada Revenue Agency. But its mandate goes far beyond complaints alone.
Mr. Boileau explains how his office operates independently from the CRA, when and how taxpayers should bring forward complaints, and why fairness, equity, and access to benefits are at the heart of his work. The conversation also explores systemic issues within Canada’s tax system, including long processing delays, call-centre challenges, and barriers faced by vulnerable and non-filing populations.
In Part I of this episode we cover:
- [4:45] The Role of the Taxpayers' Ombudsperson
- [10:00] Mr. Boileau's career history and what drew him to this role
- [14:00] The two roles of CRA
- [19:45] A discussion of the 3 step complaints process
This episode is an essential listen for taxpayers, tax professionals, and anyone interested in how public institutions can (and should) serve Canadians better.
RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:
- Office of the Taxpayers' Ombudsperson
- Reports and Publications of the Taxpayers' Ombudsperson
- Taxpayer Bill of Rights
- RC193 Service Feedback
- Community Volunteer Income Tax Program
MORE ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST:
HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:
- My website!
- Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com
- @tax.chick (IG)
- Be a "Tax Chick VIP"