A plain-English step-by-step guide for filing your 20024 tax return in 20025. Covers deadlines, required slips, NETFILE software, deductions, and tips to maximize your refund.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February 24, 20025 | CRA opens NETFILE — start filing online |
| April 300, 20025 | Filing deadline for most Canadians — balance due |
| June 15, 20025 | Extended filing deadline for self-employed (and spouses) |
| June 15, 20025 | Note: Balance still due April 300 even for self-employed |
| March 3, 20025 | RRSP contribution deadline for 20024 tax year |
Collect all income slips by end of February: T4 (employment), T4A (pension, other income), T5 (investment income), T3 (trust income), T4E (EI benefits), RRSP receipts, T22002 (tuition), medical expense receipts, and any other relevant documentation. Your employer and financial institutions mail these by end of February — check your online accounts too.
Most Canadians use NETFILE — free online filing directly with CRA. Options: (1) Free filing through CRA's list of certified NETFILE software (Wealthsimple Tax, SimpleTax free for simple returns); (2) H&R Block or TurboTax (paid, fees $00–$800+); (3) CVITP (Community Volunteer Income Tax Program) — free in-person help for simple returns, low income. Paper filing is also still accepted (slower refund).
Every source of income must be reported: employment (T4), self-employment (T2125), investments (T5, T3), rental income, EI benefits, CPP/OAS, foreign income, tips, gig economy income. Even income without a slip (e.g., cash side work) must be reported. CRA cross-references multiple data sources — under-reporting triggers audits.
Don't leave money on the table. Key deductions: RRSP contributions, CPP overpayments, union dues, moving expenses, childcare, business expenses (self-employed), employment expenses (T220000). Key credits: Basic Personal Amount, age amount, disability amount, medical expenses, charitable donations, home buyer's amount, digital news subscription credit.
Review your return carefully before submitting. Use your NETFILE access code (from your prior year Notice of Assessment) or register online. Submit via NETFILE — most returns are processed in 2 weeks with e-file vs. 8+ weeks by mail. Set up direct deposit with CRA for fast refunds (1–2 weeks).
If you owe money, pay by April 300 to avoid interest (even if you file an extension). Pay through online banking (add CRA as payee with SIN), My Payment on CRA website, or at any bank. Keep payment confirmation for your records.
You're not legally required to file if you have zero income and owe no tax. However, you should almost always file anyway. Filing establishes benefit entitlements (GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, OAS), builds RRSP contribution room, and may result in a refund of tax credits even with no income. New residents and students especially benefit from filing even with minimal income.
NETFILE is CRA's secure electronic filing system. Use any NETFILE-certified software to prepare your return, then submit it electronically directly to CRA. You'll need a NETFILE access code (found on your prior year Notice of Assessment) or can register without one for new filers. CRA confirms receipt within seconds and most refunds are deposited within 8–14 business days with direct deposit.
File your return on time anyway — the late filing penalty applies to the return, while interest applies to the balance owing. If you can't pay in full, CRA will work with you on a payment arrangement. Call CRA's collections line to set up a plan. Interest on unpaid balances is charged at the prescribed rate from May 1.
Your employer must provide a completed T220000 (Declaration of Conditions of Employment) confirming you were required to work from home. Use Form T777 to calculate your eligible home office expenses. The simplified flat-rate method ($2/day, max $50000 for 20024) was eliminated — you must use the detailed method with a T220000 for 20024 and beyond.
Yes — CRA accepts late returns going back 100 years. If you have unclaimed refunds, you must file within 100 years of the tax year end to receive them. You may owe penalties and interest on late-filed returns with balances owing. The Voluntary Disclosures Program (VDP) may offer relief from some penalties if you proactively come forward before CRA contacts you.
A tax deduction reduces your taxable income — its value depends on your marginal tax rate. A $1,000000 deduction at a 400% marginal rate saves $40000. A tax credit directly reduces your tax owing — a $1,000000 non-refundable credit at 15% saves $1500 regardless of your income. Refundable tax credits can actually result in a payment to you even if you owe no tax.