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Step 1: Know When to File

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The regular deadline to file your taxes is April 30 every year.

If you or your spouse are self-employed, the filing deadline extends to June 15, but any taxes you owe are still due by April 30.

 

Mark these dates so you avoid late penalties or interest.

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Step 2: Gather What You Need

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Start by collecting all your income and expense documents. This might include:

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• T4 slips from your job

• T4A if you're a contractor or received CERB, CRB, or pension

• T5 slips for interest or investment income

• T5018 if you work in construction as a subcontractor

• Self-employment/gig income

• RRSP contribution receipts

• Tuition/education credits (T2202)

• Medical expenses

• Childcare expenses

• Charitable donation receipts

• Any receipts related to business or home office expenses

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Keep everything in one place — paper or digital — so you're ready to go.

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Step 3: Choose How to File

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There are three main ways to file taxes in Canada:

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1. Do-It-Yourself with Tax Software

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Popular CRA-approved options like TurboTax, UFile, Wealthsimple Tax, and H&R Block offer guided filing. Some are free if your tax situation is simple.

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These programs help you fill out everything step by step and submit online through CRA’s secure NETFILE system.

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2. Hire a Tax Professional or CPA

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If your taxes are more complicated — or if you just want peace of mind — you can work with a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) who knows the tax system inside and out.

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We offer professional tax filing services with licensed CPAs for a flat rate of $150 CAD.

 

This includes:

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• Full tax return preparation

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• Review of all deductions and credits

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• Secure submission to CRA

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• Personalized tax planning to help you save money in future years

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You don’t need to guess your way through your return — let a pro handle it for you.

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3. File a Paper Return

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You can also file a paper return by printing the forms from the CRA website or ordering a tax package. This method takes longer and is best for those without online access.

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Step 4: Use CRA My Account

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CRA’s My Account is your personal tax portal. Sign up at canada.ca so you can:

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• See your RRSP and TFSA contribution limits

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• Check your refund status

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• View or download tax slips

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• See your Notice of Assessment

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• Track benefits like the GST credit or Canada Child Benefit

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It’s a game-changer, especially if you’re filing online.

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Step 5: File Your Return

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When you're ready, complete your return using your method of choice. You’ll:

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• Report all your income

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• Enter deductions and tax credits

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• Confirm direct deposit info

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• Submit your return (online or by mail)

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Once submitted, the CRA will process it, usually within 8 to 14 business days if you filed online.

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Step 6: Get Your Notice of Assessment

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Your Notice of Assessment will confirm:

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• How much you owe or are getting as a refund

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• Any adjustments CRA made

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• Your updated RRSP and TFSA contribution room

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Hold onto it — it’s your official tax result.

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Step 7: Pay What You Owe (If Anything)

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If you owe taxes, you can pay through:

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• Your bank

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• The CRA online portal

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• Mailing a cheque

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Make sure it’s paid by April 30 to avoid interest charges. If needed, you can also arrange a payment plan with CRA.

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Need Help? Let a CPA Handle It

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If you'd rather skip the stress or you're unsure about doing it right, we’ve got you covered. For $150 CAD, our Chartered Professional Accountants will:

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• Prepare and file your taxes

• Maximize your return

• Offer future tax strategies tailored to your life and goals

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You stay in control — we do the heavy lifting.

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