For several years, widow Diane H. has not had to pay up after doing her taxes. But at age 76, she suddenly faces a bill of $66.86. That may not seem like much, but losing her grocery money for a week or more hurts.

The snag she hit this year also impacts seniors like her — those with the least ability to pay.

Why? Due to an outdated income threshold that could easily be changed after 22 years.

Diane lives off a pension and Old Age Security (OAS). Since retiring, her personal and age exemptions have always surpassed her taxable income, wiping out any balance on her return.

In 2024, Diane’s taxable income was $19,772. Yet her 2025 income tax return had some cost-of-living indexing of pension and OAS, taking her taxable income to $21,114. While she owes nothing in taxes, she must now pay an Ontario Health Premium. This surcharge is levied on all taxpayers with a taxable income of $20,000.

Like many low-income........

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