My tax filing was accepted but seems worker benefit applied automatically

[Tax_Fanatic]

Reviewing the express NOA I see it says I applied for the worker benefit, although I do not think I qualify.

I do not recall TurboTax ever asking me for this or giving me the option to choose if I apply or not, is there any penalty from the CRA is one applies but is not eligible, I worry about fines and penalties.

Is this something automatically happening ?

[TurboTax_Susan]

You are eligible for the basic amount of the Canada workers benefit (CWB) if you meet all the following conditions:

• Earn working income and your net income is below the net income level set for your province or territory of residence
• Are a resident of Canada throughout the year
• Are 19 years of age or older on December 31, or you live with your spouse or common-law partner or your child

You are not eligible for the CWB if any of the following applies:

• Are enrolled as a full-time student at a designated educational institution for more than 13 weeks in the year unless, on December 31, you have an eligible dependant
• Are confined to a prison or similar institution for a period of at least 90 days during the year
• Do not have to pay tax in Canada because you are an officer or servant of another country, such as a diplomat, or you are a family member or employee of that person

TurboTax would add the credit based on what you entered on your tax return, including profile questions.

[Tax_Fanatic]

Well that is my concern exactly I do not think I am eligible, it would be better for TurboTax to inform me and let me make that decision, bc last year I do not remember the software automatically applying for it.

[TurboTax_Susan]

The CWB has been automatically added to returns since it replaced the Working Income Tax Benefit in 2019. 

If TurboTax is not sure if you are eligible, you'll get a warning in the review.

[Tax_Fanatic]

Yes I remember a year I think 2023 where it warned me to review it and I saw I was not eligible and did not apply, I wished that was still the case.

In any case CRA would let me know if eligible or not, I assume given I do not want to deal with later clawbacks.