Korean Job Discussion Forums

Fofazoju · Joined: 09 May 2006

Yes, another Canadian tax question. YAY!

So I have been out of the country for roughly 5 years, teaching in Korea for 4 of them. I didn't cancel my OHIP, and I have an old card so it never expires. Hooray!

I am going back home in September, and I am aware of the 3 month wait IF OHIP is already cancelled.

Because my OHIP isn't cancelled, TECHNICALLY I can still use it.

IF I use it, and then file as a non-resident, will there be ANY chance that the government can check or see that I have used OHIP?

panthermodern · Joined: 08 Feb 2003 Location: Taxronto

Yes, but what are they going to do?

livinginkunsan · Joined: 02 Dec 2006

Fofazoju · Joined: 09 May 2006

thanks livinginkunsan!

Sheesh, some ppl.

If they find out I used OHIP is that enough (I know it is case by case but I have the usual ties - bank account, passport, drivers licence - thats about it)

But I may need to use it when I get back but dont want it to be a "TA-DA now give us $15,000 please" Smile

wings · Joined: 09 Nov 2006

I think it is a given that if you use your OHIP card you will be deemed a resident and have to pay tax. It is logical. OHIP is payed for by tax.

You can't get health care for nothing, and I'm sure the government would agree.

On the other hand, getting private coverage for 3 months when you return and telling OHIP that you are back would seem to be very good grounds for getting non-resident status.

Fofazoju · Joined: 09 May 2006

wings:

While I am aware of this (duh), I do not think it would be fair that having been gone for 5 years, that I visit the doctor and then the government decides now they should tax me on the income I made for the 5 years I have been out of Canada.

I am well aware that taxes go towards these things and that I can't something for nothing. Next time I have a moral question, you will be the first person I ask. The question is not, "Is this morally correct" it is, "IF I DO IT WILL THEY FIND OUT?"

I do not think its fair that I would have to pay taxes for the 5 years I have been out of the country based on a few doctors visits. Especially since I have already paid taxes here in Korea.

Fofazoju · Joined: 09 May 2006

THat being said, thanks for the tip on private health care coverage. I just may look into that.

livinginkunsan · Joined: 02 Dec 2006

I am not sure where you are from, but if you are a Canadian, you CANT get private coverage. I went home last year to visit my family (for 1 month). I couldn't get travelers insurance here in Korea cause I was visiting my home country (my wife called many places) and as a Canadian citizen I couldn't get blue cross or any other additional coverage unless I first had medicare. I even went to medicare and told them of my problem.. their solution ~don't get sick~ lol.

There must be a solution (and I would like to hear of one, cause am going back to Canada next year) but I haven't found it.

simone · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Location: Now Mostly @ Home

I was able to get blue cross for when my daughter and I went back to ontario for christmas.

TheChickenLover · Joined: 17 Dec 2007 Location: The Chicken Coop

OHIP is a MAJOR reason to be deemed a resident. It does NOT matter if you used it or not. You are FULLY covered.

So say you're gone for 4 years and find yourself being diagnosed with cancer. You can simply fly back to Canada & get full medical free of charge. Is that right? Should you be taxed to pay for that privilege? Absolutely!

I had to cancel my OHIP when I left & I was told that was a HUGE factor regardless whether you used it or not.

Bottom line, you had full coverage & you're going to be taxed for it. The fact that you didnt' use it means nothing. You're screwed.

Chicken

smedini · Joined: 02 Apr 2008

smedini · Joined: 02 Apr 2008