As Canadians miss out on benefits, Ottawa promises automatic tax filing is on the way

​As some vulnerable Canadians who don't file their taxes miss out on benefits, the Canada Revenue Agency is expected to pilot a new automatic system next year.

This week's federal budget said the agency will also present a plan by 2024 to expand the service, following consultations with stakeholders and community organizations. 

The move toward automatic tax filing, first promised in the 2020 speech from the throne, is one of several budget measures the Liberals say are meant to help Canadians with the cost of living.

Jennifer Robson, an associate professor in political management at Carleton University, said she's "cautiously optimistic" about the move.