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Newcomers
Mary Ogenyi-Igoche, RCIC-IRB
Mary Ogenyi-Igoche, RCIC-IRB ·

As a newcomer to Canada, one important thing you may need to learn is about the Canadian tax system, including the importance and process of filing a tax return.

A tax return is a document you file with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) that reports your income, deductions, and credits for a given tax year. Filing a tax return is important because it determines your eligibility for certain benefits, credits, refunds, and tax liability.

Why file a tax return in Canada?

So, you have just arrived in Canada, and perhaps you are wondering why you may need to file your taxes as a newcomer. Even if you only lived in Canada for part of the year or have little or no income, you STILL need to file your tax return every year to receive a tax refund (if you are owed one) and continue to receive benefit and credit payments (if you are entitled to them), such as the Canada Child Benefit or the GST/HST credit.

What is the deadline for tax returns?

The deadline for filing your tax return is April 30th of each year; however, when April 30th falls on a weekend, there is an extension to the next business day. If you or your spouse or common-law partner is self-employed, the filing deadline is June 15th. However, your payment is due on April 30 if you have a tax liability.

How do I file a tax return in Canada?

There are several ways to file your tax return, including paper filing or e-filing using certified tax software. However, as a newcomer, you may want to ask for guidance from an expert.

Here are some resources in the Soo:
1) The Sault Community Career Centre and United Way of Sault Ste. Marie usually host a Free Income Tax Clinic for Newcomers.
2) H&R Block
3) Liberty Tax
4) Private Accountants

Information and Documents Needed:

- Personal Information (Name. address, contact information).
- Social Insurance Number (SIN).
- If you are a student- You need a T2202 slip (Tuition and Enrolment Certificate).
- If employed- You need a T4 slip (Statement of Remuneration Paid).
- If you are on Maternity leave or have received any form of Employment Insurance (EI) or other benefits- You need a T4E slip (Statement of Employment Insurance and Other Benefits).
- If you invested in RRSP, TFSA, etc - You need a T5 slip (Return of Investment Income).

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