How to File Taxes on Your Own in Canada

Filing taxes in Canada might seem overwhelming, especially if you’re an international student or a temporary resident on a work permit. However, the process is quite manageable once you understand the basics. Whether you have income or not, filing your taxes can help you claim benefits and avoid penalties. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate tax season in Canada.

1. Determine Your Residency Status

Your residency status for tax purposes determines your filing obligations. As an international student or a temporary worker, you are generally considered one of the following:

Resident for tax purposes: If you have established significant ties to Canada (e.g., a job, home, or family), you are considered a resident and must report worldwide income.

Non-resident: If you stay in Canada for less than 183 days in a tax year and don’t establish significant ties, you may only need to report Canadian income.

Deemed resident: If you stay for 183 days or more but don’t have significant ties, you may still be considered a resident for tax purposes.

You can use the CRA’s Residency Determination Tool to clarify your status.

2. Gather the Required Documents

Before you start filing, collect these important documents:

T4 slip (if you worked in Canada) – This is your statement of employment income and deductions.

T2202 slip (if you are a student) – This document shows tuition fees paid, which can help you claim tuition tax credits.

T5 slip (if you earned interest from a bank account or investments).

Rent receipts or T4A slips (for scholarships, grants, or bursaries).

Social Insurance Number (SIN) or Individual Tax Number (ITN).

Bank statements or proof of payments for deductible expenses (e.g., medical expenses, textbooks).

3. Choose a Filing Method

You can file your taxes using different methods:

Online using certified tax software: Services like TurboTax, Wealthsimple Tax, or UFile are CRA-approved and guide you through the process step by step.

By paper: You can mail a completed T1 General Tax Return form to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), but this takes much longer.

Through a free tax clinic: If you have a simple tax situation and low income, the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) offers free assistance.

4. Claim Benefits and Deductions

Even if you didn’t earn an income, you should still file your taxes to claim benefits such as:

GST/HST credit – A tax-free quarterly payment to help with sales taxes.

Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP) – If you live in certain provinces, you may receive this credit.

Tuition tax credit – Helps reduce taxes owed if you paid tuition.

Moving expenses – If you moved for work or school, some expenses may be deductible.

Medical expenses – Some health-related costs not covered by insurance may be claimed.

5. Submit Your Tax Return

Once you complete your return, submit it:

Electronically: If you used tax software, you can file directly through NETFILE.

By mail: Send your paper tax return to the appropriate CRA tax center.

The deadline to file is April 30 (or June 15 if you’re self-employed). However, if you owe taxes, the payment deadline is April 30 to avoid interest charges.

6. Track Your Refund or Balance Owing

After filing, you can check your return status via:

CRA My Account – Register for an online account to track your tax return and refunds.

Tax software updates (if you filed online).

If you’re getting a refund, you can expect it within two weeks for online filing or 8 weeks for paper filing. If you owe taxes, ensure you pay on time to avoid penalties.

7. Set Up Direct Deposit and Keep Records

To receive refunds faster, set up direct deposit through CRA My Account. Keep copies of your tax return and receipts for at least six years in case CRA requests verification.

Filing taxes in Canada as an international student or temporary worker is essential for accessing benefits and maintaining compliance with tax laws. With online tools, tax clinics, and helpful resources from the CRA, the process is easier than it seems. Don’t wait until the last minute—start gathering your documents and file on time!