Moving to Canada is an exciting experience, but it also comes with responsibilities, including filing your taxes. If you’re new to Canada, you might not know where to start. Fortunately, there are several options available to file your taxes easily and securely. In this article, we explore the different ways you can file your tax return in Canada.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) offers a list of certified tax software that allows you to file your taxes online. These programs are user-friendly, and some offer free versions for simple returns. Popular options include:
These programs guide you step by step and help you identify deductions and benefits available to newcomers.
If your tax situation is more complex or you prefer personalized assistance, hiring an accountant is a great option. At Toro Accounting, we help newcomers file their taxes efficiently while maximizing available credits and deductions. An accountant can assist you with:
Understanding your tax obligations in Canada
Claiming benefits such as the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Benefit
Properly reporting foreign income and assets
The CRA partners with community organizations to offer free tax clinics for individuals with modest incomes and simple tax situations. These clinics are run by volunteers, and you can find one near you using this link: Free Tax Clinics
While online filing is faster, you can also choose to file a paper tax return. The CRA provides tax packages that you can download or request by mail. More information here: Tax Forms and Guides
The CRA provides various resources in multiple languages, including Spanish and French, to help newcomers with their taxes. These include:
Online guides on how to file your first tax return: Link
Telephone support for tax-related inquiries: Contact CRA
Webinars and video tutorials on the tax filing process: Link
Even if you didn’t earn income in Canada, filing your tax return is key to accessing benefits such as:
GST/HST Credit – A tax-free quarterly payment for eligible individuals
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Monthly support for families with children
Provincial Benefits – Additional benefits depending on the province you reside in
At Toro Accounting, we understand the challenges newcomers face when filing their first tax return in Canada. Our team is here to make the process simple and stress-free.
Need help with your taxes? Contact us today and let our experts guide you through your tax filing in Canada.