For most Canadian employees, the 2026 tax filing deadline is June 15, 2026. However, if you or your spouse owe taxes, you must pay by April 30, 2026, or interest will start to accrue. Self-employed individuals and business owners should also note June 15 as their filing deadline, though their corporate tax deadlines may differ. The key is knowing what season brings which tax task, so you're never caught off guard. Spring is when most Canadians feel the tax pressure building. Here's what to focus on: By the end of February, employers must issue T4s. Your bank sends T5s for investment income. If you received Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments, you'll see those reflected in your Notice of Assessment from the prior year. Check CRA My Account to see what slips have been filed on your behalf. March and April are perfect months to track down receipts for: Medical expenses from the prior tax year Childcare costs (daycare, after-school programs, camps) Home office expenses if you worked from home Moving expenses if you relocated for work Tuition and education costs Charitable donations If you had significant medical or childcare expenses, use our Medical Expense Calculator or Childcare Expense Calculator to
The standard filing deadline for Canadian tax returns in 2026 is June 15, 2026. However, if you or your spouse owe taxes, payment must be made by April 30, 2026, or interest will accrue on the balance owing.
The RRSP contribution deadline for 2025 taxes is March 1, 2026 (or March 2, 2026 if March 1 falls on a weekend). Any contributions made by this date are deductible against your 2025 income.
By the end of February, you should receive T4 slips from employers, T5 slips for investment income, T4A slips for other income, and any other relevant tax slips. Check CRA My Account in March to see which slips have been filed on your behalf.
Self-employed individuals and sole proprietors have the same June 15 filing deadline as employees. However, they may be required to make quarterly tax installments if they owe more than a certain amount in taxes. Corporate tax deadlines differ and depend on your year-end.
Filing early (April or May) is usually better because the CRA processes returns faster and you'll receive your refund sooner. Early filing also gives you more time to resolve any issues before the June 15 deadline.