Your Complete Guide to Filing Taxes in Canada: What You Need to Know
Accounting 
Nov 25, 2025 
Tax season in Canada can be stressful, especially if you’re not sure where to start. Between deadlines, forms, and changing rules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with the right guidance and preparation, tax filing in Canada becomes much more manageable.
Whether you’re filing for the first time or looking to streamline the process, this income tax guide outlines key steps, tools, and tips to help you file confidently and accurately.
Timing is everything when it comes to tax filing in Canada. The standard deadline for personal tax returns is April 30. If that date falls on a weekend, the CRA usually extends it to the next business day.
Missing this deadline can lead to penalties and interest charges. The CRA imposes a 5% late-filing penalty on the balance owing, plus 1% for each additional month your return is late (up to 12 months). Even if you can’t pay your full tax bill, it’s better to file on time and make arrangements later.
If you’re self-employed, or your spouse or common-law partner is, you have until June 15 to file. However, any taxes owing are still due by April 30, so don’t delay payment planning.
It’s also worth noting that if you’ve received COVID-related benefits, such as CRB or CERB in past years, you may still need to account for those payments in your return if outstanding taxes are due. Double-check your CRA My Account for all income records.
Accuracy starts with having the right paperwork. Make sure to collect all your relevant tax documents before starting the filing process:
If you’ve signed up for a CRA My Account, many of these documents can be accessed online. It’s a helpful tool for reviewing what’s been submitted on your behalf and helps reduce the risk of missing critical information.
Additional documents you may need include rental income details, business expense logs if self-employed, and statements for digital currency holdings if applicable. Keeping organized records all year long makes this part of the process far smoother.
Ensure that all information is accurate and complete. Missing or incorrect details can trigger reassessments, delay your refund, or lead to CRA follow-ups.
This is where your refund potential starts to take shape. The CRA offers a range of deductions and credits, depending on your situation. Common deductions include:
Popular credits include:
Keep track of these expenses throughout the year, so you’re not scrambling at tax time. A tax professional can also help identify less obvious deductions that might apply to you.
New Canadians or those with recent status changes may be eligible for additional credits. The GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, and other regional programs often rely on accurate tax filing to determine eligibility.
There are a few ways to complete your tax return:
If your return is simple and straightforward, using tax software or NETFILE is usually enough. For more complex cases, like multiple income sources, rental properties, or foreign assets, working with a professional is a smart move.
Working with a tax expert doesn’t just help ensure accuracy. It also gives you peace of mind. Your return is double-checked, potential deductions are fully explored, and if the CRA reaches out later, you’ve got someone in your corner.
Want your refund faster? Set up direct deposit with the CRA. You can do this through your CRA My Account or by calling the CRA directly. Once set up, your refund usually arrives within eight business days of your return being assessed.
You can also check the status of your refund anytime through your CRA My Account. It shows whether your return has been received, processed, or if more information is needed. Having everything connected digitally speeds up the process and makes managing your taxes much easier.
If you’re still receiving paper cheques, switching to direct deposit is one of the easiest ways to avoid delays or lost mail.
Avoiding errors is just as important as submitting your return on time. These are some of the most frequent mistakes Canadians make:
Another common issue is double-claiming expenses or incorrectly entering amounts from tax slips. This can lead to automatic adjustments from the CRA or even audit requests. Always review your return before submitting it, and if something doesn’t make sense, ask.
Tax filing regulations in Canada evolve yearly, so don’t rely on last year’s form or assumptions. Keeping current can save you from costly missteps.
At A & N Accounting, we specialize in guiding individuals through every step of the CRA tax filing process. Whether your tax situation is simple or complex, we offer customized services to match your needs.
Our team provides:
We stay updated on the latest tax changes, ensuring you’re always in compliance and making the most of your return. Our local expertise and one-on-one support make a big difference, especially when the stakes are high.
Our accountants take the time to understand your financial picture and offer guidance that extends beyond tax season. Whether you need help planning RRSP contributions, adjusting withholdings, or preparing for next year’s return, we’re here to help year-round.
Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be stressful. When you understand deadlines, deductions, and your filing options, the process becomes much easier. Tax filing in Canada is what A & N Accounting specializes in, with expert support every step of the way.
Reach out to A & N Accounting today at 416-938-7860, email info@anaccounting.ca or click here to get in touch online.
Tax season in Canada can be stressful, especially if you’re not sure where to start. Between deadlines, forms, and changing rules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with the right guidance and preparation, tax filing in Canada becomes much more manageable. Whether you’re filing for the first time or looking to streamline the process, this… Continue reading Your Complete Guide to Filing Taxes in Canada: What You Need to Know
November 25, 2025 Read More