Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Last Updated: May 21, 2025

Introduction

Mercury Taxes ("we," "us," or "our") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information in accordance with Canadian federal privacy laws (PIPEDA), Ontario privacy legislation, and in connection with our SMS text messaging services for tax-related communications and reminders.

Information We Collect

Personal Information

We may collect the following personal information:

• Name and contact information (phone number, email address, mailing address)
• Social Insurance Number (SIN) and other tax identification numbers
• Financial and tax-related information
• Employment and income details
• Preferences related to our tax services
• Communication records and service history

This information is collected only for tax filing purposes and is never used in SMS messages. Access is strictly limited to employees on a need-to-know basis. Requests for personal or tax return information via SMS will not be honored under any circumstances.

SMS/Text Messaging Information

When you opt-in to receive text messages from us, we collect:

• Your mobile phone number
• Messages you send to us
• Delivery confirmations
• Your Canadian wireless carrier information
• Consent and opt-in/opt-out preferences

How We Use Your Information

• Provide tax preparation and related services
• Send SMS reminders about tax deadlines and appointments (with your consent)
• Process tax documents and notify status
• Provide tax-related customer support
• Improve user experience
• Comply with CRA, PIPEDA, and Ontario laws

SMS Text Messaging Terms

Consent and Opt-In

• Consent is required to receive SMS messages
• You may withdraw consent anytime
• Standard Canadian messaging rates may apply
• Message frequency varies by tax season

Types of Messages

• Service Messages: Deadlines, appointment reminders (rare)
• Transactional Messages: Confirmations, document requests, status updates
• Informational Messages: Tax law changes or seasonal updates (very rare)

Opt-Out Instructions

• Reply "STOP" to any message
• Email info@mercurytaxes.com with subject line "STOP SMS"
• Request opt-out during any service interaction

Once you opt out, a final confirmation message may be sent. Consent will be withdrawn immediately.

Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell or share your personal information without explicit written consent. Limited exceptions include:

• Service Providers: SMS platforms, secure storage—bound by confidentiality and privacy law
• Legal Compliance: When required by law or regulation
• Business Transfers: With notice and consent if required under PIPEDA

All sharing is minimal and adheres to the highest Canadian data protection standards.

Data Security

We implement technical and organizational safeguards in line with Canadian law. While we protect your data, no internet method is 100% secure. Data is stored in Canada or jurisdictions with similar privacy protections.

Data Retention

We retain personal information to:

• Provide tax services
• Meet CRA record requirements (usually 6 years)
• Comply with legal obligations
• Resolve disputes and enforce agreements

SMS data is typically retained for 2 years unless deletion is requested or required by law.

Your Rights Under Canadian Privacy Law

You have the right to:

• Access and correct your data
• Withdraw consent for marketing
• Request deletion (subject to CRA laws)
• File complaints with the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
• Request how your data has been used

To exercise your rights, contact: info@mercurytaxes.com (subject line: "PRIVACY POLICY").

Third-Party Services

We may integrate with compliant Canadian third-party SMS platforms. These platforms are held to strict privacy standards and have their own policies we encourage you to review.

Children's Privacy

Our services are not intended for individuals under 18. We do not knowingly collect information from minors without parental consent.

Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated to reflect legal or operational changes. Significant changes will be communicated via website or other means, with renewed consent where required.

Contact Information

Wireless Carrier Information

Our SMS services operate through all major Canadian carriers (Rogers, Bell, Telus, Freedom Mobile). Standard rates apply.

Regulatory Compliance

This Privacy Policy complies with:

• Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)
• Ontario privacy legislation
• Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL)
• 10DLC messaging requirements for Canadian operations
• Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requirements