Keep All Your Federal Government Benefits
Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke – Cheryl Gallant, MP has issued a ‘Consumer Alert’ after receiving numerous calls from constituents about notices in their mail and radio ads claiming to be able to collect thousands of dollars in unclaimed benefits from Government programs.
“Do not sign any forms or disclose any personal, private information to anyone before you contact my office,” stated Cheryl Gallant, MP. “These firms or individuals aggressively market their services, some taking a 30 percent commission, or more, of any tax refund. Many request detailed, personal information with access to your private banking information.”
“As your Member of Parliament, I believe it is my responsibility to make sure constituents receive all the federal government benefits they are qualified to receive,” observed MP Gallant. “If any constituent has any question about any federal program, my staff and I would be pleased to look into your case.”
Residents in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke have been receiving unaddressed, ‘official looking’ mailings that are thinly disguised sales pitches. Radio stations have been running ads for companies who conduct local seminars in the hopes of attracting constituents who are unaware of the various ways the federal government provides financial assistance to individuals.
“I am worried that these out-of town operations create false hope of ‘government money’. Nothing is worse than having to collect funds that never should have been paid. If some one has a legitimate disability claim, you need to use your local doctor for follow-up. I recommend using a local accountant or local tax preparer, someone who will be available locally should any questions arise about a revised tax return,” said Cheryl Gallant, MP.
“One of the actions our government took when we were first elected, was to implement changes to provide greater assistance to people with disabilities. Nothing disturbs me more when I hear stories of individuals being cheated out of money that is rightfully theirs,” concluded Cheryl Gallant, MP.
DO NOT SIGN ANY FORMS OR DISCLOSE ANY PERSONAL, PRIVATE INFORMATION BEFORE YOU CONTACT MY OFFICE. Why give away money that may be owed to you? If you think you may qualify for any federal tax credit or benefit program, my constituency office is here to serve you, no charge. We will make sure you receive every penny you qualify for. Keep all of your refund!
Cheryl Gallant MP, with Whitney resident Jeremiah Nicholas who dropped by to say high during this summer’s constituency clinic in his area