Step-by-step guide — deadlines, free software, what slips you need, and how to get your refund faster
Filing your Canadian tax return is simpler than most people think — especially if you use free NETFILE-certified software. This guide walks you through every step, from gathering your slips to hitting Submit and checking your refund status.
| Situation | Filing Deadline | Payment Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Most Canadians (employed) | April 30, 2026 | April 30, 2026 |
| Self-employed (and spouse) | June 15, 2026 | April 30, 2026 |
| Deceased person's return | 6 months after death | 6 months after death |
Late filing penalty: If you owe money and file late, CRA charges 5% of the balance owing plus 1% per month (up to 12 months). Even if you cannot pay, file on time to avoid the penalty.
You need all your income slips before you can file. Most slips are available in your CRA My Account by late February. Common slips include:
Tip: Log into CRA My Account to see all slips CRA has on file for you. Employers and financial institutions submit slips electronically — you can pull them directly into most tax software without re-typing anything.
NETFILE is CRA's online filing system. You prepare your return using certified tax software, then submit it electronically directly to CRA. Most refunds arrive within 2 weeks. All major Canadian tax software is NETFILE-certified:
| Software | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wealthsimple Tax | Free (pay-what-you-want) | Employees, simple returns |
| TurboTax Free | Free (basic) | Simple T4 returns |
| H&R Block Online | Free to $49.99 | Self-employed, investments |
| UFile | Free for students | Students, simple returns |
| TaxTron | Free to $14.99 | Budget-conscious filers |
You can still file a paper T1 General return by mail. CRA mails packages to people who filed on paper the previous year. Paper returns take 8 weeks or more to process — much slower than NETFILE. Not recommended unless you are unable to file electronically.
Accountants and tax professionals use EFILE to submit on your behalf. If you have complex returns — self-employment, rental income, corporate shares, foreign income — this is worth the cost.
Good tax software walks you through this section by section. Here is the standard order:
Before you hit submit, review your return for common mistakes:
Once you submit via NETFILE, CRA sends a confirmation number within minutes. Save this — it is your proof of filing.
Log into CRA My Account and go to "Tax Returns" to see your return's status. NETFILE refunds typically arrive 2 weeks after submission if you have direct deposit set up. Paper cheques take 4–6 weeks longer.
CRA sends a Notice of Assessment after processing your return — either through My Account or by mail. Review it carefully. It confirms your refund or balance owing, your RRSP contribution room for next year, and your TFSA room.
Disagreed with CRA's assessment? You have 90 days from the date of the NOA to file a Notice of Objection if you believe CRA made an error.
You do not have to file a return if you had no income and no tax owing — but you should file anyway if you want to receive benefits. These benefits are calculated from your tax return:
Even with zero income, file your return to keep your benefit payments flowing. Many Canadians lose thousands in benefits simply by not filing.
If your income is low and your return is simple, CRA's Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) offers free tax preparation by trained volunteers. Search for a clinic at canada.ca/taxes-help. Eligible if you earn under approximately $35,000 (single) or $45,000 (couple).
Smart Canada Tax connects you with a qualified Canadian tax advisor for personalized guidance — no office visit required.
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