Is this your first time filing taxes in Canada, or do you have questions about the filing process?
We know that taxes can be complicated, especially for international postdocs who are learning a new tax system.
We have compiled a collection of common questions, answers, and resources to support you. Please note that this page is not designed to provide tax and/or financial advice. Everyone is responsible for reviewing relevant government information and understanding their own tax obligations in Canada.
Who needs to file taxes in Canada?
The requirement to file your taxes in Canada depends on whether you received income during the tax year in question, whether you owe taxes, and your residency status. In general, you should file your taxes through an Income Tax Return if you:
-
Have to pay income tax
-
Are entitled to a tax refund
-
Want to apply for tax credits
-
Want to carry forward non-refundable tax credits
-
Want to report income eligible for RRSP contributions
-
You or your spouse want to receive the Canada Child Benefit
You can learn more about tax filing obligations for different residency groups on the Government of Canada’s Who should file a tax return webpage.
How do I prepare to file my taxes?
The Government of Canada outlines 6 key steps in the tax filing process. Each step leads to a related webpage with additional information.
-
Get tax slips in order (e.g., T4, T4A)
-
Notify the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) of any changes (e.g., mailing address, marital status, name, phone number, etc.)
-
Decide how you would like to file your tax return (e.g., tax software, a tax professional, paper form)
How do I update my information or contact the CRA?
Many pieces of information can be updated or obtained through a CRA account. The CRA can also be reached by phone at 1-800-959-8281. Please note that wait times may be longer than normal during tax season (i.e., Feb-April).
When should I file my taxes?
Most individuals in Canada file their taxes between February and April each year. The deadline for most individuals is April 30 each year. You can see other deadlines and updates on the government’s due dates and payment dates webpage.
What are some examples of tax credits I may be eligible for?
There are a variety of federal and/or provincial tax credits you may be eligible for which could either result in a refund payment from the government or decrease the amount of taxes you need to pay. Some examples include:
-
GST/HST credit (for those with a “low or modest incomes”)
-
Canada training credit (for those who paid for tuition or eligible training courses)
-
Canada child benefit (for eligible families with children under the age of 18)
-
Ontario trillium benefit (to help eligible residents in Ontario “pay for energy costs, sales and property tax”)
You can learn more about the benefits you may be eligible for at the provincial and federal levels through the Government of Canada’s tax credits webpage.
Where can I get additional help with understanding and filing my taxes?
-
Visit the Canada Revenue Agency website for more information about tax laws and procedures.
-
Visit Waterloo’s Human Resources’ website to learn more about income tax and potential contributions you may be paying (e.g., Employment Insurance).
-
Community organizations run free tax clinics during the tax season. Some are even available in different languages! You may also be eligible to access support through the Accounting and Finance Student Association on campus.
-
There are certified tax software options you can use to help with your tax return such as TurboTax and UFile.
-
There are videos on YouTube that may help you understand how taxes and tax returns work in Canada such as ones hosted by TurboTax.