IRS Extends Tax-Filing Deadline to May 17; will the CRA do the same?

I saw that and asked myself the same question.  I too wouldn't mind the extension.

I just wrote a letter to the Minister of National Revenue, suggesting that the tax deadline be extended this year. 

Perhaps those who would like to see the deadline extended, should write a quick letter to the Minister, too: https://apps.cra-arc.gc.ca/ebci/cjid/prot/ntr.action 

Please, let's not have an extension this year. Most people are working from home and tax preparers are, for the most part, working remotely as well. We should be able to get this done without an extension. Let's just get it over with by April 30th and not prolong the season. 

Normally I don’t like extensions either. However, I’ve noticed that some clients are going to have their tax returns done much later than usual because they don’t expect refunds. In addition, some people don’t want to see me in person and email/drop off their documents; preparing such tax returns takes significantly more time.

I know that the government has extended the payment date for those who got COVID-related benefits and otherwise qualify, but I believe that they’re still required to file their tax return by April 30, 2021.

You'll always have clients that want to do their taxes later because they suspect they're owing. This year because they've extended the payment date for Covid related benefits there's no reason to hold off filing. I'm finding that clients want to know now what the results are sooner than later. 

All of my preparation is being done remotely. Yes it adds extra work but it's doable.

Two years in a row of extending the deadline and I can guarantee that next year you'll find clients that are confused that the deadline is actually April 30 and will file late. Let's not make tax filing any more confusing then it already is.