Taxes
Taxes in Canada
Filing your taxes is an important part of life in Canada. Even if you have little or no income, filing your tax return ensures you receive benefits and credits you're entitled to.
April 30
Deadline
Free Options
Filing
GST/HST Credit
Benefits
Progressive
System
Filing Your Taxes
You must file a tax return every year by April 30 (or June 15 if self-employed)
You can file for free using NETFILE-certified software (e.g., Wealthsimple Tax, TurboTax Free)
Free tax clinics (Community Volunteer Income Tax Program) help low-income individuals
Your tax return calculates income tax owed or refund you may receive
Even with no income, filing helps you receive the GST/HST credit and other benefits
You can file taxes for previous years if you missed filing when you arrived
Benefits & Credits
GST/HST Credit: quarterly tax-free payment to low/moderate-income individuals
Canada Child Benefit (CCB): tax-free monthly payment for families with children under 18
Canada Workers Benefit (CWB): refundable tax credit for low-income workers
Climate Action Incentive: tax-free amount for residents of certain provinces
Provincial tax credits (e.g., Ontario Trillium Benefit, BC Climate Action Tax Credit)
Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) deductions reduce your taxable income
CRA & Key Info
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) manages taxes, benefits, and credits
You need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to file taxes and receive benefits
Set up a My Account with CRA to view your tax info and benefits online
Direct deposit with CRA ensures faster benefit payments to your bank account
Keep tax documents: T4 (employment), T5 (investment), tuition receipts, medical expenses
If you owe taxes, CRA offers payment plans — don't ignore the deadline
Newcomers must file a tax return even if they arrived late in the year. The GST/HST Credit and Canada Child Benefit are based on your family income from your tax return. Free tax clinics and software are available — never pay for basic tax filing if your income is low. Contact a settlement agency for help with your first tax return.