File Your First Tax Return
Description
The official tax deadline is April 30. However, as a newcomer, you should file as soon as possible (or prepare your documents) to unlock federal and provincial benefit payments.
In person
N/A
Online
1–2 hours
What to do
1.
Collect tax slips (T4 from employers, T2202 from your school)
2.
Report your worldwide income for the months before you arrived in Canada
3.
Find a CRA-certified tax software (NETFILE) or a free community volunteer clinic
4.
Submit your return online and save the confirmation number for your records
Warnings
File by April 30
- Filing late will delay your quarterly benefit payments by several months
- Never pay high fees to someone to file a simple tax return; use CRA-certified free software or volunteer clinics
- Ensure your direct deposit is set up in CRA My Account to receive your money faster than by mail
Tips
Free tax clinics (CVITP)
If your income is modest, look for free 'Community Volunteer Income Tax Program' (CVITP) clinics at local libraries.
Worldwide income
Report your worldwide income for the period before you arrived — this is for credit calculation only, you won't be taxed on it.
Missed the deadline?
If you arrived after the April deadline, you can still submit Form RC151 immediately to start receiving benefits without waiting for the next year.