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Key Tax Deadlines for 2025
If you’re wondering about the tax deadline 2025 Canada, you’re not alone. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) outlines specific dates every tax season, and missing them can mean costly penalties.
Here are the essential deadlines you need to remember:
| 🗓️ Date | 📉 Description |
| Feb 24, 2025 | CRA opens NETFILE – start filing taxes for 2025 Canada |
| Feb 28, 2025 | Employers must issue T4 slips |
| Apr 30, 2025 | Final day to file taxes & pay any balance owing |
| June 16, 2025 | Filing deadline for self-employed individuals and their spouse/common law partner (extended due to weekend) |
⚠️ Note: If you owe money, interest starts on May 1, 2025, regardless of your filing deadline.
When Can I Start Filing Taxes for 2025 Canada?
Great question. The answer is: February 24, 2025. This is when CRA’s NETFILE opens for the season, giving you the green light to file electronically using approved tax software.
Filing early comes with perks:
- Beat the April rush
- Faster refunds
- Fewer errors when you’re not racing the clock
You can file your taxes as soon as you have:
- T4 and other income slips
- RRSP contribution receipts
- Receipts for tax credits or deductions
- A CRA “My Account” login (optional but recommended)
You don’t need to wait for a letter from CRA—once your paperwork is ready, you’re good to go.
Are you confident your business tax filings are fully optimized and compliant?
Understanding T4 Slips and Deadlines
If you’re an employee, your T4 slip is gold. It details your total income, taxes withheld, CPP/EI contributions, and more.
Employers are required by law to issue T4 slips by February 28, 2025.
What if you don’t receive your T4?
- Ask your employer first.
- Check your CRA “My Account” – they may have submitted it directly.
- If still unavailable, estimate your income using pay stubs and add a note to your return.
Also, keep an eye out for other slips like T4A, T5, and T3 if you have freelance income, scholarships, or investment income.
Penalties and Interest: What Happens If You’re Late?
CRA doesn’t mess around when it comes to deadlines. If you miss one, here’s what happens:
❌ Late Filing Penalty
- 5% of your unpaid tax immediately
- +1% per month (up to 12 months)
⚡ Interest on Balance Owing
- Charged daily, starting May 1, 2025
- Applies even if you file on time but don’t pay
Filing late, even by a day, can cost you. File early if possible, even if you can’t pay in full right away.
Tips to Stay Ahead of Tax Deadlines
- Create a tax folder early in the year
- Use CRA’s My Account to track your documents and return status
- Set calendar alerts for Feb 24, Feb 28, Apr 30, and June 16
- Double-check all forms before submission to avoid processing delays
- Work with a professional if you have multiple income sources, own a business, or are claiming complex deductions
How Canada Tax Deadlines Work (Calendar Year, Tax Slips, and More)
Understanding Canada tax deadlines 2025 isn’t just about memorizing dates. It helps to understand how the calendar year structure ties in with the CRA’s system of tracking income, issuing tax slips, and assessing liabilities.
Tax Filing Deadlines Follow the Calendar Year
Canada operates on a calendar year basis for tax purposes. This means:
- Your 2024 tax return covers income earned from January 1 to December 31, 2024.
- The return is filed in 2025, with the standard tax filing deadline 2025 Canada falling on April 30, 2025.
Types of Tax Slips You Might Receive
Most individuals will get a T4 slip if they are employed, but others might receive:
- T4A for pensions or freelance income
- T5 for interest and dividends
- T3 for trust income
Each slip type has its own reporting purpose and plays a role in determining how your returns filed are assessed.
What Counts as On-Time Filing?
The CRA considers your return filed on time if:
- It’s received or postmarked by the due date
- You also pay any taxes owing by the same date
Key Due Dates for All Canadians
- T4 Deadline 2025: February 28, 2025
- Individual Filing Deadline: April 30, 2025
- Self-Employed Filing Deadline: June 16, 2025 (but balance owing still due April 30)
Keeping track of all tax filing deadlines ensures you don’t leave money on the table or incur unnecessary fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are taxes due in 2025 Canada?
April 30, 2025, is the main filing and payment deadline for most individual taxpayers.
When can I start filing taxes for 2025 Canada?
CRA opens NETFILE on February 24, 2025.
What’s the deadline for self-employed Canadians?
You have until June 16, 2025, but any taxes owed are still due by April 30.
What happens if I miss the tax deadline?
Penalties and daily interest apply. Always file on time, even if you can’t pay right away.
Can I still file a paper return?
Yes, but it takes longer to process. CRA encourages online filing.
What happens if I file early but forget a document?
You can file an amended return later. Use CRA’s “Change My Return” service or submit a T1-ADJ form.
Can I file jointly with my spouse or common-law partner?
Canada doesn’t allow joint returns, but you can coordinate your filings to optimize credits and deductions.
How do I know if I owe money?
Use tax software or a professional to calculate your return. If you owe, CRA will notify you after assessing your return.
Can I claim my tuition or medical expenses?
Yes, as long as you have eligible receipts and documentation. These can reduce your tax owed or increase your refund.
What if I made a mistake on my return?
You can request a correction online or by mail. It’s better to amend than ignore errors, which could trigger penalties.
Conclusion
Don’t let deadlines sneak up on you. Whether you’re expecting a refund or owe money, staying organized can save you stress, penalties, and lost credits. Mark the dates, file early, and get peace of mind.
And if in doubt? Ask a tax professional. A little guidance now can save you a lot later.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. While we strive to ensure accuracy, tax laws and deadlines can change. Always consult the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or a qualified tax professional before making any tax-related decisions.
