You have to file a tax return if you either owe tax, or you're owed a refund for overpaid taxes, Canada Pension Plan, or Employment Insurance. So use this checklist to help make filing your taxes as efficient and painless as possible.
Download a copy of this checklist here.
Note Important Deadlines
- The deadline for receiving most tax information slips is February 28, except for the T3, which is issued 90 days after a trust's tax year-end.
- The deadline for contributing to your RSP/RRSP and deducting it on your 2018 return is March 1, 2019.
- The deadline for filing your personal tax return, the T1, is April 30, 2019. If you're self-employed, the filing deadline is June 15, although you must pay any tax owing by April 30.
Manage Your Tax Information Online
- If you haven't already done so, register with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)'s MyAccount in order to check your RSP/RRSP limit, register for direct deposit, view the status of your return, and much more.
Prepare Your Return
- Use NETFILE-certified tax software to guide you through the various forms and schedules on the tax return.
- Let Auto-fill my return populate information held by CRA into your tax return, and review to ensure it's accurate.
- Don't feel like you have to complete your tax return all in one sitting. Come back and fill in outstanding information as you receive it.
- If your tax situation is complicated, consider seeking the advice of a tax professional like a CPA.
File Your Return
- File online with the CRA using NETFILE, which is fast, easy and secure.
- Pay any tax owing or wait for your refund!
