Break time with Fil

Our Full-Service tax experts are an amazing bunch, and Fil Ortiz is no exception. He's not only a whiz at doing taxes (for real—he actually enjoys doing taxes) but he's also an expert at something equally important: taking breaks. Taking breaks while doing your taxes can lower your stress and give you the focus you need to ensure you don't miss anything. Here's what Fil had to say during his coffee break.

Fil! Let's start with the fun stuff. How do you take breaks?

I love to exercise. Weightlifting and hiking are my favourite activities. I also hang out with my friends—things can get pretty competitive in my tabletop role-playing group.

How do you take quick micro breaks, like when you only have 10-15 minutes?

I like to play computer games on my phone and watch YouTube videos. Right now, I'm watching a series about experts who answer questions on their field of research, such as a paleontologist talking about how dinosaurs lived.

You mentioned you like to hang out with friends. Do they ever ask you for tax advice at parties?

Ha, ha, no! Maybe I give off a “don't-bug-me-about-work” vibe. But it also makes me wonder if people aren't nearly as into taxes as I am.

A super important question here. Poutine: Are you for or against?

I used to be ‘meh' but then I ordered it in Montreal. Now I'm a fan.

Is Montreal your favourite Canadian destination?

No, that would be Quebec City.

We're seeing a theme here …

Yes! I like to practice my French … and eat poutine.

Spender or saver: which are you?

Both. Saving is important because you never know what kind of unexpected expenses can pop up. But you're only young once—you should enjoy life too. Taxes can be an important part of your big financial picture. A good tax strategy can leave you with more money to spend and save.

What was your biggest splurge last year?

I booked a flight for a trip that I'm taking this year to the Philippines … after tax season, of course. Can't miss the best time of year!

It really is! Speaking of tax season, we can't miss this chance to tap into your expertise. You've done, what, hundreds of tax returns …?

About 800 now …

Wow. Okay, after doing about 800 tax returns, what's the top tax tip you wish everyone knew?

Take advantage of all the credits and deductions you're entitled to, such as the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (Formerly the GST/HST credit), or provincial ones. They can make a HUGE difference on your outcome.

You chose to get into tax-work. Umm, why?

After arriving in Canada, I worked at an accounting firm and discovered I love doing taxes. They're a lot like playing tabletop games—both involve problem-solving and navigating rules.

How has your approach to taxes changed over the years?

With the experience I've gained over the years, I'm better able to streamline the questions I ask my customers. For example, if someone says they're self-employed, I know what questions to ask about work-from-home expenses.

Finally, how long does it take you to do your own taxes? Like, 5 minutes?

Ha, ha, no. My taxes are simple. But they still take me almost an hour, because I like to check and double-check.

Well, that's a wrap! If you'd like Fil to check and double-check your taxes, you can book him or one of our other Live Experts here. And if you see him at a party, you might want to take note of his vibe and keep your tax questions to yourself.