CRA still owed more than $5 billion in COVID-19 benefit debt

The Canada Revenue Agency says Ottawa is still owed $5.56 billion in COVID19 benefit payments that went to people later found to be ineligible. The updated figure, based on data from July 31, is down from more than $10 billion reported last November. The original payments, mostly through CERB and CRB, totaled about $14 billion, according to the CRA. The agency says about $3.671 billion has been repaid since collections began in 2022. It also says the remaining balance can change over time because of repayments, eligibility reviews and writeoffs for debts considered uncollectable. The CRA says it is using flexible repayment options, including interestfree payment plans and extended timelines, to help people repay what they owe. It also says it may take legal action in cases where debt remains unpaid despite the ability to pay.