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Taxes & benefits

Filing on time unlocks most federal benefits and credits. Our tax-season guides help you prepare, avoid audit triggers and keep more of what is yours.

  1. File every year
    Many benefits, such as the Canada child benefit, depend on a filed return.
  2. Know deductions vs credits
    Deductions lower taxable income; credits lower the tax you owe.
  3. Keep records for six years
    The CRA can ask for receipts and slips.
Articles

Taxes & benefits guides

Tax software · 2025 returnNETFILEYour return, step by stepPersonal infoImport slips (Auto-fill)Deductions & creditsReviewSubmit with NETFILESubmit✓CRA-certifiedSecure e-file$RefundEst. in 2 weeks
March 17, 2026·6 min read

How to Use These 6 CRA-Certified Tax Software

CRA-certified software lets you file securely through NETFILE. Here is how six common options work and what to compare before you choose one.

CRA AUDITS 2026Be audit-ready1Keep receipts 6 years2Report all income3Match your slips4Answer CRA letters fast✓Documents organisedReady if CRA asks
March 16, 2026·5 min read

CRA Tax Audits in 2026: What You Need to Know This Tax Season

Small policy changes each year affect what you pay and the credits you can claim. Here are the updates to know before you file your 2025 return.

CRA REVIEW4 areas in focus1Home office expenses2Rental income3Self-employment income4Charitable donations✓Keep receipts 6 yearsYour best audit defence
March 16, 2026·4 min read

CRA Audit: 4 Areas Getting Extra Attention This Tax Season

Filing on time is only half the job; filing accurately matters too. Here are four areas getting extra CRA attention and how to keep your return in order.

2026 TAX PLAN5 strategiesMax your RRSP deductionClaim childcare expensesSplit eligible pension incomeUse your FHSATrack medical expenses!Tax seasonFile by April 30✓3 of 5 doneKeep going
March 16, 2026·5 min read

5 Tax Strategies Every Canadian Woman Should Know in 2026

Tax planning is more than filing on time. Learn five concepts that explain how your income is taxed and how timing and structure can change what you pay.

CHECKLISTBefore you fileGather your T4 slipsRRSP contribution receiptChildcare receiptsMedical expensesFile by April 30!DeadlineApril 30, 2027✓4 of 5 doneAlmost ready to file
March 2, 2026·4 min read

What Every Canadian Woman Should Do Before Tax Filing

Tax season feels much easier when you prepare ahead. Here is what to gather, which deadlines to mark and how to make sure you don't miss a benefit.

NOTICE OF ASSESSMENTMaximise your refundRRSP deduction+$680Childcare expenses+$410Medical expenses+$95Charitable donations+$55Refund (example)$1,240✓Claimed every creditNothing left on the table!File on timeAvoid late penalties
March 2, 2026·5 min read

Smart Strategies to Get the Most from Your Tax Return

Filing your taxes is also a chance to keep more of your money. These strategies help you claim the credits and deductions you are entitled to.

Finance Woman shares financial education, insights and general information for women in Canada. We are not a registered or licensed financial, investment, tax or legal adviser, and we do not sell or recommend financial products. Do your own research and speak to a licensed professional before you act.

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