Preparing for the 2026 Tax Season in Canada:
As the 2026 income tax filing season approached, it is important to be prepared to ensure a smooth filing experience. The key is to be aware of the relevant deadlines and to start preparing in advance, rather than leaving everything to the last minute. Below, we provide a practical guide outlining important deadlines and best practices to help you prepare for the upcoming season.
Key Deadlines
- The deadline to file a 2025 personal income tax return is April 30, 2026.
- For self-employed individuals, or if your spouse if self-employed, the deadline is June 15, 2026. However, if you anticipate any tax payable, we recommend either filing by April 30, 2026, or making an estimated payment by that date to avoid interest and penalties because the deadline for making payments is April 30, 2026.
- For corporate income tax returns, the filing deadline depends on your business structure. In most cases, the return is due three months after the corporation’s year-end.
If you currently work with an accountant, we recommend contacting them early to allow sufficient time to gather all required documents. Always inform your accountant about any changes in your situation compared to previous years. If you do not have an accountant, feel free to contact us to discuss how we may be able to assist you.
What documents do I need for tax filing?
Some of the required documents and information you need to prepare, if applicable to you, includes your tax slips, such as but not limited to T4, T4A, and T5 slips. Other information that may help reduce your taxes payable include:
- Medical expenses tax credit: Eligible medical expenses paid out of pocket during the applicable period (for example in 2025) may qualify for this credit.
- Tuition tax credit: this applies to students attending qualifying educational institutions with sufficient income to claim the credit. Unused tuition credits may be carried forward to future years. If the credits are not used, it can be carried forward into future years. Please note that each individual tax and income situation is different. Two individuals attending the same institution at the same time may receive different tax results depending on factors such as income level and other available credits.
- Work from home expenses: These may be deductible if CRA eligibility criteria are met. Eligibility methods vary, and accurate calculations are required. We strongly recommend consulting or hiring a professional accountant if you intend to claim work-from-home expenses, and we would be happy to assist.
There may be additional information you need to prepare that could affect your tax return, depending on your situation. This may include items such as charitable donations to Canadian registered charities, pension income splitting, or other deductions or credits.
Changes to the 2025 Income Tax Package
For individuals who file their tax returns online/electronically, there are no significant changes for the 2025 tax year. However, individuals who choose to file on paper should be aware that CRA will no longer automatically mail income tax packages.
The CRA will continue to support paper filing through the following options:
- Beginning January 20, 2026, individuals may order, view, download and print the package online using this link
- Individuals may also call the CRA’s automated phone line at 1-855-330-3305 (non-residents can call 1-613-940-8495). Please ensure you have your Social Insurance Number (SIN) when you call CRA for inquiries.
At AP Accounting Solutions, we file tax returns for hundreds of individuals and self-employed taxpayers each year. We are well-versed in identifying and applying applicable tax credits based on each client’s unique situation. If you are looking for professional assistance with your 2025 tax return, we would be happy to help. Feel free to reach out to us or book an introductory call to discuss your inquiry.
