Designed for eligible people with a simpler tax situation.
If you need more features, use certified tax software instead.
FAQ
Is CRA SimpleFile free?
CRA describes SimpleFile as a free filing option for eligible people with a simple tax situation. Always confirm eligibility on CRA.
Which software is best for self-employed?
If you have business income/expenses (T2125), software with strong self-employed workflows is usually easier. Compare TurboTax, H&R Block, UFile, and Wealthsimple Tax based on your needs.
I am in Quebec - should I care about QST?
Yes. Quebec can involve QST and specific Revenu Quebec steps. Use the Quebec guides and tools to stay organized.
Top tax filing options in Canada
Use the free CRA option if you qualify, or pick software when you need more guidance, features, or complex forms.
CRA SimpleFile (Free) — for lower income + simple tax situations
SimpleFile is a free CRA service designed for eligible Canadians with a simpler tax situation.
If you qualify, you can file your personal income tax and benefit return without buying software.
Cost
$0 (Free)
When it opens
March 9, 2026
Digital reopening (CRA)
Ways to file
Digital / Phone / Paper
Depends on eligibility
Good fit if:
You have a simple return and want a free CRA option.
You want a guided “answer a few questions” style filing (CRA uses info it has on file).
You’re ok with fewer advanced features than paid software.
Note: eligibility rules can change. Always confirm on CRA before filing.
FAQ
Is CRA SimpleFile really free?
Yes—CRA describes SimpleFile as a free filing service for eligible individuals with a simple tax situation.
When does SimpleFile open for the 2025 return?
CRA says SimpleFile services reopen March 9, 2026 (Digital and Phone options).
Should I use software if I’m self-employed?
Often yes—software can be easier when you have self-employment income, expenses, and more forms.
For very simple situations, CRA options may still apply depending on eligibility.
Reviews
Explore tax software reviews
If you want a deeper look, these pages break down features, pricing, and who each option is best for.
Prefer a quick walkthrough? This short video explains the basics of filing taxes in Canada and what to prepare
before you submit your return. Watch it first, then use the checklist and calculator below for a rough estimate.
Disclaimer: This video is for general information only and does not replace certified tax software or professional advice.
Video overview about filing taxes in Canada, CRA basics, common documents, deductions, and refunds.
Quick take
Fast recommendations
Best for beginners
TurboTax
Guided prompts and guardrails make it easier to avoid missed fields on a first return.
Best free/simple
Wealthsimple Tax
Clean interface with pay-what-you-want pricing for straightforward returns.
Best with human help
H&R Block
Add a tax pro review if you want a second set of eyes on your return.
Best for families
UFile
Solid for multi-return households and situations with dependents.
Key dates
Canada tax deadlines for 2026
These are the main dates to plan around. Confirm on CRA in case deadlines shift.
Feb 23, 2026
Earliest day to file online (NETFILE opens).
Applies to: Most individual filers.
Mar 2, 2026
RRSP contribution deadline for the 2025 tax year.
Applies to: Anyone claiming RRSP deductions.
Apr 30, 2026
Filing and payment deadline for most individuals.
Applies to: Most Canadians.
Jun 15, 2026
Filing deadline if self-employed (payment still due Apr 30).
Applies to: Self-employed and spouse/common-law partner.
What you need before you start
Detail level
Beginner: These are your pay and income slips from jobs, banks, or investments.
Advanced: Make sure every slip is included so CRA totals match and you avoid a reassessment.
Quebec note: You may also receive RL slips from Revenu Quebec.
Beginner: Receipts show how much you put into your RRSPs.
Advanced: RRSP deductions reduce taxable income, but only contributions for the tax year qualify.
Beginner: These forms show tuition paid and student loan interest you can claim.
Advanced: Tuition credits can reduce tax now or be carried forward to future years.
Quebec note: Provincial tuition handling differs, so keep Quebec forms too.
Beginner: Receipts are needed to claim childcare expenses.
Advanced: Keep provider name, address, and SIN or business number for CRA review.
Beginner: Official donation receipts can lower your tax bill.
Advanced: Only CRA-registered charities count, and you need official receipts.
Beginner: Medical receipts may help reduce tax if you qualify.
Advanced: Track the total for the year and include insurance statements for accuracy.
Beginner: Only claim if you are eligible and kept receipts.
Advanced: Keep employer forms and a detailed breakdown of eligible expenses.
Beginner: Direct deposit helps you get refunds faster.
Advanced: The notice of assessment lists carryforwards and any amounts owing.
Quebec note: Keep your provincial notice of assessment as well.
Common mistakes to avoid
errorMissing slips from a second job or side income
errorSkipping RRSP receipts or tuition carryforwards
errorClaiming expenses without receipts or eligibility
errorUsing the wrong marital status or forgetting a new address
errorForgetting to report investment or interest income
errorPaying after Apr 30 even when filing later
CRA help
How to Get Help from the CRA During Tax Season
During tax season, demand for assistance from the CRA rises. Online services are usually the fastest path.
Why online filing
In 2025, approximately 93% of income tax and benefit returns were filed electronically. Filing online is faster and reduces delays.
Paper filing still works
Paper filing remains an option. Procedures and timelines can change year to year, so review the latest requirements.
My Account benefits
Use My Account to update details, check refund status, and access notices without calling.
Using these resources can save time and help ensure your return is filed accurately.
Tax calculator
Estimate your 2025 tax in minutes
Uses 2025 tax-year rates (filed in 2026). Treat results as a rough estimate only.
infoUse your T4 employment income before tax.
infoCPP/QPP is higher on self-employment income.
infoGross-up and dividend credits applied automatically.
infoOnly 50% is taxable in this estimate.
Dividend credits and the 50% capital gains inclusion rate are applied for this estimate.
These are applied as simple deductions in this estimate and may not reflect CRA eligibility rules.
infoUse federal + provincial income tax withheld from slips.
Estimate only. This calculator does not cover every CRA rule, credit, or exception. Confirm your results with certified tax software or a tax professional.
Tax brackets
Federal + Ontario tax brackets
Uses the province selected in the calculator and 2025 tax-year rates.
Canadian federal tax brackets
Federal tax bracket
Rate
$57,375 or less
14.50%
$57,375 to $114,750
20.50%
$114,750 to $177,882
26.00%
$177,882 to $253,414
29.00%
Over $253,414
33.00%
Ontario tax brackets
Provincial tax bracket
Rate
$52,886 or less
5.05%
$52,886 to $105,775
9.15%
$105,775 to $150,000
11.16%
$150,000 to $220,000
12.16%
Over $220,000
13.16%
TurboTax steps
TurboTax step-by-step (8 steps)
A simple walkthrough for beginners. Keep your slips nearby and you can finish in one sitting.
1
Create or sign in to your TurboTax account and select your tax year.
Use the same email you want to keep your tax records under.
2
Choose your province and filing type, then add spouse/dependents if applicable.
TurboTax asks a few simple questions to set up your return correctly.
Why this matters: This determines the credits and provincial forms you will see later.
3
Import slips (T4, T4A, T5) or connect your CRA account to autofill.
If you do not connect CRA, you can still type your slips in manually.
4
Confirm personal details, address, and direct deposit information.
Use the address on your CRA account and your current bank details.
Why this matters: Accurate details help avoid delays in refunds or benefit payments.
5
Enter deductions and credits (RRSPs, tuition, medical, work-from-home).
If you are unsure, add the receipts you have and review the prompts.
6
Review prompts, resolve warnings, and run the final review.
Most warnings are about missing fields, not mistakes.
Why this matters: The review catches missing fields that can slow processing.
7
Submit through NETFILE and save your confirmation number.
Your confirmation number is your proof that CRA received the return.
8
Pay any balance owing and download your PDF copy.
Save the PDF somewhere safe so you can reference it next year.
Note: If you are self-employed, you can file by June 15, 2026, but any balance owing is still due April 30, 2026.
TurboTax pricing snapshot (Do It Yourself)
Prices shown are from TurboTax Online and can change by plan or tax year.
Free
$0
Covers simple tax situations only.
Deluxe
$21
Adds donations, medical expenses, employment expenses, and more.
Premier
$40
Adds capital gains, investment income, and foreign income support.
Self-Employed
$60
Adds self-employment and rental income workflows.
Features and benefits (selected)
• Auto-fill My Return (CRA)
• ReFILE support
• Bring-forward data
• Deductions and credits guidance
Before You Submit: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before you hit submit, take a minute to review these common issues. A quick double-check can help prevent delays,
missed credits, or reassessments.
1
Missing income slips
Confirm you included all slips such as T4, T4A, T5, T3, and any other income sources—even small amounts.
2
Personal details not updated
Double-check your name, address, marital status, and dependants. Small changes can affect credits and benefits.
3
Common deductions or credits forgotten
Review RRSP contributions, tuition, student loan interest, medical expenses, donations, and childcare costs.
4
Direct deposit or payment details incorrect
Verify your banking info for direct deposit and confirm any balance owing payment method and deadlines.
5
Quebec residents: remember the provincial return
If you live in Quebec, you generally file both a federal return and a Quebec provincial return. Make sure both are completed.
Quick tip
If you are unsure about a slip or amount, check your CRA online account or confirm with the issuer (employer/bank) before submitting.
What Happens After You File Your Taxes
After you submit your return, your information is processed and you’ll receive an outcome such as a refund,
a balance owing, or a notice confirming your results. Here’s what to expect next.
1) Processing and status updates
Online filing is typically processed faster than paper filing. If you have access, checking your tax account online
is one of the easiest ways to see updates on your return status.
2) Refund (or balance owing)
If you paid more tax than you owe, you may receive a refund. Direct deposit can speed up how you receive it.
If you owe tax, follow the payment instructions and keep proof of payment.
3) Notice of Assessment (NOA)
After processing, you’ll receive a Notice of Assessment that summarizes your return and confirms your final result.
Keep it for your records—it may include carry-forward amounts and other important details.
4) Reviews or document requests
Sometimes returns are reviewed to confirm information. This doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong.
If documents are requested, respond with the receipts or records that support your claim.
5) Save your records
Keep your slips, receipts, and supporting documents in case you need them later. Organizing everything now
makes next year’s filing easier.
Quebec note
If you live in Quebec, you generally file both a federal return and a Quebec provincial return.
You may also receive a provincial notice from Revenu Québec in addition to your federal Notice of Assessment.
Reminder: This page provides general information and simplified estimates. For official filing, use certified tax software or professional advice.
Need help? Use official CRA + Revenu Quebec resources
If something feels confusing, do not guess. The fastest way to confirm a tax rule is to check the official source
(CRA for Canada, Revenu Quebec for Quebec) and read the exact section that applies to your situation.
Taxes are not rocket science. They are paperwork.
Filing on your own mainly takes patience: sit down, read, and type carefully. Modern tax software reduces the workload
by guiding you step by step. What used to take days can often be completed in one sitting.
CRA ACCOUNT
Use your CRA online account (My Account)
Helpful for checking status and retrieving documents without waiting on the phone.
View or update personal information
Check refund or return status
Access your Notice of Assessment or proof of income
If you live in Quebec, you generally file both a federal return and a Quebec provincial return.
Use Revenu Quebec online services when you need provincial guidance.
How to find the right answer fast (Google / Bing / AI)
Search the official source first. Then read the exact section that matches your situation.
Use "site:" for official pages
Example: site:canada.ca medical expenses eligible
Example: site:revenuquebec.ca work-from-home expenses
Use AI to summarize, then verify
Ask an AI to explain the rule in simple words, but always confirm with CRA or Revenu Quebec pages before entering numbers.
Reminder: This page provides simplified education and estimates only. Always verify rules with CRA, Revenu Quebec, or a qualified professional.
Step-by-step: Find the official answer fast (and know you're on the right page)
Use this workflow anytime you're unsure about a deduction, credit, or expense. You'll end up on the exact CRA or Revenu Quebec page that matches your situation.
1
Start with a targeted "site:" search
This filters results to official government pages and avoids blogs or random forums.
CRA (Canada)
site:canada.ca <topic> eligible
Revenu Quebec
site:revenuquebec.ca <topic> deduction credit
Example of a targeted site search that filters to official CRA pages.
2
Open the result that looks like the main rule page
Pick pages that look like official guidance (not announcements). Helpful clues: "Lines", "claim", "eligible", "how to claim", or "documents you need".
If there are multiple results, open 2 to 3 in new tabs and keep the best one.
Example of choosing the most relevant official result.
3
Use the page's "On this page" menu (TOC)
Many CRA pages include an "On this page" section with quick links. Click the exact subsection that matches your case.
What to look for
• How to claim or who can claim
• Documents you need
• Common eligible vs not eligible items
• Forms or certifications required (if any)
Example of the "On this page" menu on an official CRA page.
4
Use the page search or filter (if it has a table or list)
Some CRA pages include a searchable list (for example, medical expenses). Use the filter box to quickly locate the exact item you're asking about.
If the list says "See details", click it. That is usually where the real rule is explained.
Example of using a filter box to find the exact item in a list.
5
Ask AI to summarize, then verify on the same page
Copy a short paragraph from the official page and ask AI to explain it simply. Then confirm you can still point to the same official section before entering anything into software.
Example workflow: Medical expenses (CRA)
Try this exact search, open the most relevant CRA page, then use "On this page" to jump to "Documents you need" or the list of common medical expenses.
Copy and paste search query
site:canada.ca medical expenses eligible
Example of an official CRA page you would review for eligibility details.
Bingo checklist (you found the right page)
• It's on canada.ca (CRA)
• It explains who can claim and what counts
• It lists documents and receipts required
• It has a section menu ("On this page") you can click
What to do next
• Read the matching subsection
• Confirm if prescription or certification is required
• Save receipts and any forms mentioned
• Enter the total in your tax software
Quick search shortcuts (copy and paste)
Medical expenses
site:canada.ca medical expenses eligible
Tuition (Canada)
site:canada.ca T2202 tuition claim
Moving expenses
site:canada.ca moving expenses eligible
Work-from-home (Quebec)
site:revenuquebec.ca telework expenses
Tip: When you find the right government page, bookmark it. Next year you'll file faster because you'll already know the correct section.
Alternatives
Alternatives to TurboTax
All options below are NETFILE-capable for most returns. Pick based on how much guidance you want.
Best for simple, low-cost filing
Wealthsimple Tax
check_circlePay-what-you-want pricing with a fast, minimal workflow.
check_circleGreat if you have standard slips and want a clean interface.
Do I need to file a tax return in Canada?expand_more
Most Canadian residents need to file a tax return if they earned income, want to claim a tax refund, or are eligible for benefits and credits such as the GST/HST credit or Canada Child Benefit. Even if you had little or no income, filing can still be beneficial.
What information do I need to file my Canadian tax return?expand_more
To file your tax return in Canada, you typically need your income slips (such as T4 or T5), details of other income, and records of eligible deductions or credits like RRSP contributions, tuition fees, or medical expenses. Having these documents ready helps avoid delays.
Is this tax calculator accurate for Canada?expand_more
This calculator provides a rough estimate based on common income types, deductions, and federal/provincial tax rates. It does not cover every rule or credit used by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), but it can help you understand whether you may owe tax or receive a refund.
Can I use this page instead of tax software like TurboTax?expand_more
No. This page is meant for basic guidance and estimation only. You should still use certified tax software or a tax professional to file your official Canadian tax return and ensure accuracy.
What expenses can reduce my taxable income in Canada?expand_more
Common expenses that may reduce taxable income include RRSP contributions, eligible medical expenses, tuition and student loan interest, moving expenses related to work or school, work-from-home expenses, and childcare costs. Eligibility depends on CRA rules.
How do tax refunds work in Canada?expand_more
If the income tax you paid during the year is higher than what you owe, you may receive a tax refund after filing your return. Refund amounts depend on income, deductions, credits, and taxes already paid.
When is the tax filing deadline in Canada?expand_more
For most individuals, the tax filing deadline is April 30. Self-employed individuals typically have until June 15 to file, but any taxes owed must still be paid by April 30 to avoid interest.
Do I need to file taxes if I live in Quebec?expand_more
Yes. Quebec residents usually file both a federal tax return with the CRA and a provincial return with Revenu Quebec. While this calculator includes Quebec estimates, it is still a simplified overview.
What happens if I make a mistake on my tax return?expand_more
Mistakes can delay refunds or lead to reassessments. If you notice an error after filing, you can correct it through your CRA account or by using tax software that supports adjustments.
What's new for CRA tax season 2026?
Quick overview of important changes (then read the full guide for details).
Starting Feb 2026, CRA account users are prompted to add a backup MFA option (passcode grid or authenticator app).
NETFILE access code is easier to find in CRA My Account (8 characters).
Benefit updates: proposed GST credit ("groceries & essentials") changes include a one-time top-up + a 25% increase starting July 2026 (subject to approval).
Key dates: e-file opening and filing deadlines matter (especially if you owe or are self-employed).
Educational overview only. Always verify details with CRA / official sources.
Business Tax Preparation Checklist (Canada)
A step-by-step checklist to organize your documents before you choose tax software and file.
Educational only — not tax advice.
Step 1: Confirm what you’re filing
Identify whether you’re filing a personal return only, self-employed income, rental income, or investments.
Gig work (Uber/taxi/delivery) is usually treated as self-employment income.
What documents do I need for self-employed taxes in Canada?
Have your income totals, expense receipts, mileage logs (if claiming vehicle expenses), and any slips like T4A/T5 if applicable.
Do I need a mileage log for Uber/taxi/delivery?
If you claim vehicle expenses, a mileage log is one of the best records to support business-use deductions.
Should I wait for all slips before filing?
Usually yes. Filing too early can cause changes later if additional slips arrive and are posted to CRA.
Can tax software handle self-employment income?
Most major Canadian tax software supports self-employment income and common business expense categories.
What if I’m in Quebec?
Quebec residents may have additional requirements and may deal with Revenu Québec for QST. Use our Quebec guide for step-by-step filing.
Does the quick method always save money for GST/HST?
Not always. The quick method can simplify remitting, but depending on expenses and ITCs, the regular method may be better.
Practice simulator
Try the Tax Practice Simulator
Want a low-stakes walkthrough before you file for real? Use our simulator to practice inputs and see a simplified
estimate. No TurboTax or CRA branding, and no official filing is performed.
Practice only • Estimates only • Not official tax filing
Original UI and simplified math for learning the flow
Guests can try it without signing in (saved in this browser)
Practice only • Not affiliated with TurboTax or CRA
Ready to File Your Canadian Tax Return?
Choose the filing option that fits your situation. These suggestions are for general guidance to help you file taxes in Canada.
For official submission, use certified tax software or a qualified tax professional.
MOST POPULAR
File online with tax software
Best for most people. Step-by-step guidance, common error checks, and faster processing than paper filing.
Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you use them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Quebec residents: don’t forget the provincial return
If you live in Quebec, you generally file both a federal return and a Quebec provincial return.
You may also receive a provincial notice from Revenu Québec.
Build a smarter home office (work-from-home and productivity picks)
If you work from home, study, or manage personal finances online, the right setup can improve comfort,
productivity, and focus. Below are practical guides to help you choose reliable equipment, no hype,
just real-world recommendations.
Note: Equipment recommendations are independent and informational. Always choose based on your personal
needs, workspace, and budget.
Disclosure
Affiliate disclosure and sources
Transparency matters. Here is how we approach links and sources.
Affiliate disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you click and purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are editorially independent and focused on clarity and fit.
This guide is for educational purposes and does not replace official CRA tools or professional advice.
