With the tax deadline coming up next Monday, a local accountant says the last few weeks have been hectic.

Ed Friesen from Friesen Accounting in Steinbach says the deadline is normally April 30th but because the 30th falls on a Sunday this year, it was pushed back to Monday, May 1st. He says the last week of the tax season is always very busy with people coming in last minute.

"We have some late comers, we had a bunch of drop-offs this last week yet before the deadline which is extended until May 1st instead of April 30th seeing it's on a Sunday. A lot of guys take advantage and wait an extra day before they drop it off. For us, an extra day is a help."

Friesen says they are not surprised by the tax rush because it happens every year. He notes the entire month of April is busy.

"It happens every year, it's just one of the things you can't avoid. There are always late comers and then you have to work evenings and weekends, Sundays you take in, in April I work every Sunday just to keep up with it."

Friesen says those that owe the government money will face a 5% tax owing penalty with interest if they miss the deadline. He adds if you are set to receive a refund there are no penalties for being late.