Filing your taxes can feel overwhelming, especially the first time. Between unfamiliar forms, confusing terminology, and worry about costly mistakes, many people put it off longer than they should. The good news is that filing taxes online in Canada is now straightforward, secure, and accessible, thanks to CRA-certified tax software.
Whether you’re new to online filing or simply want a refresher, this guide breaks the process into clear, manageable steps. You’ll learn what documents you need, how CRA NETFILE works, and how tools like TurboTax Canada and UFile (which are both available at Best Buy Canada) can help you navigate the process smoothly.
Can you file your taxes online in Canada?
Yes! Most Canadians are eligible to file their personal taxes online.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) allows individuals to submit their T1 personal tax return electronically using the NETFILE system. To do this, you must use CRA-certified tax software, which ensures your return meets CRA’s security and formatting requirements.
Online filing is suitable for most people, including employees, students, retirees, and many self-employed individuals. However, there are a few exceptions. Situations such as bankruptcy during the current tax year, certain non-resident filings, or very complex tax scenarios may require paper filing or professional help. But if your situation is straightforward, NETFILE is typically the fastest and safest option.
What you need before you start
Before opening your tax software, it helps to gather everything in advance. Being prepared reduces errors and makes the experience much less stressful. You just need three things to start filing.
1. Your SIN
To file your taxes, you’ll first need your Social Insurance Number (SIN). This is essential, as the CRA uses it to identify your tax record. Enter it exactly as issued.
2. Income slips
Next, collect your income slips. The most common is the T4, which reports employment income. Depending on your situation, you may also have T5 slips (investment income), T4A slips (pensions, scholarships, or contract income), or self-employment records.
3. Receipts
You’ll also want receipts and slips for deductions and credits. These may include RRSP contribution receipts, tuition slips (T2202), childcare expenses, and charitable donation receipts. Many people collect these in a folder, envelope, or filing app throughout the year to make deductions easy.
If you’re unsure what documents receipts you need to file taxes, consult the CRA’s website for detailed guidance on slips and deductions to help confirm what applies to you.
Optional: Last year’s tax return
If available, having a copy of your tax return from last year can be useful for reference, particularly for carryforward amounts like unused tuition credits. Access to CRA My Account is also optional, but highly recommended. Pairing your previous tax return with the current year’s digital return allows you to use Auto-fill My Return, which securely pulls information the CRA already has on file.
Finally, you’ll need tax software Canada CRA-certified, either free or paid.
Choosing the right tax software
Selecting the right software is one of the most important steps for beginners. Your software shouldn’t just calculate numbers; it should explain what’s happening and help you avoid mistakes. The best software for filing taxes in Canada is something that’s accessible, CRA NETFILE-certified, and easy to use.
Two of the most popular CRA-approved options in Canada are TurboTax and UFile. Both are available through Best Buy Canada.
TurboTax Canada: ideal for first-time filers
TurboTax by Intuit
TurboTax is a great option for first-time filers and people with simple tax situations. You can file between 4 and 20 returns with TurboTax purchased at Best Buy Canada. TurboTax is available in both English and French and has different variations to suit your filing needs.
TurboTax is widely regarded as one of the most beginner-friendly platforms for filing your taxes in Canada. It uses an interview-style approach to filing, asking simple questions and automatically filling in the correct tax forms as you answer them. This makes it especially helpful if you’re unsure about deductions, credits, or terminology.
Key benefits of using TurboTax include:
- Step-by-step guidance in plain language
- Built-in checks that flag missing information or potential errors
- Free and paid versions, so you can choose what best suits your tax situation
TurboTax is especially helpful for students, seniors, and anyone who wants reassurance they’re doing things correctly.
UFile: flexible and cost-effective
UFile: clear, form-based tax filing
File straightforward taxes in French or English for 4 or 12 returns with UFile.
UFile is another CRA-certified option that appeals to users who want solid guidance without a premium price. While it’s slightly more form-based than TurboTax, it’s still approachable for beginners and offers excellent value—particularly for families filing multiple returns.
UFile is known for its:
- Affordable pricing, especially for households filing multiple returns
- Strong handling of multiple returns under one account
- Clear summaries that help you understand your final result
Both TurboTax and UFile are reliable, CRA-approved choices. The best option depends on the guidance level you want and your comfort with forms.
Step-by-step: how to file taxes online
Here’s a clear walkthrough of how to file taxes online in Canada using NETFILE-certified tax software.
Step 1: choose your software
Select CRA NETFILE-certified software that suits your needs. You can browse tax software options at Best Buy Canada and choose between a digital download or a CD copy.
Step 2: create an account and start a return
Once installed or accessed online, you’ll create a secure account. This allows you to save progress and return later if needed.
Step 3: enter your personal information
You’ll be asked for basic details such as your name, SIN, date of birth, address, and marital status. Accuracy is important—this information must match CRA records. Tax filing software can often auto-fill this information based on your CRA account and past returns, if given the permission to do so.
Step 4: enter your income
Input income from your T4s and other slips. If you use CRA My Account, Auto-Fill My Return can automatically import many of these details as well. Auto-filling these sections can save time and reduce errors.
Step 5: add deductions and credits
This is where using tax software really helps. You’ll be guided through common deductions and credits such as RRSP contributions, tuition amounts, medical expenses, and donations. The software asks questions to ensure you don’t miss anything relevant, which helps get you the best and most accurate return possible.
Step 6: review your return and optimize for refund or balance
Before submitting, carefully review your tax summary. The software you use will highlight warnings, show whether you’re receiving a refund or owe money, and explain why.
Step 7: submit through NETFILE
When ready, submit your taxes electronically using online tax filing through CRA NETFILE. You’ll receive a confirmation number once the CRA accepts your return.
Step 8: save your records
After you submit your return to the CRA, you still need to save a copy for your own records. Download or print a copy of your return and keep it for at least six years, as required by the CRA.
Tax Q&A: common questions and mistakes to avoid
Many beginners worry they’ll do something wrong when filing their taxes on their own. Thankfully, tax software is designed to catch common issues. Here, we’ll cover some common concerns that you can plan around with the help of your tax software.
Do I need to mail my taxes in after I file online?
No, you not need to mail anything in when filing online. NETFILE submissions are complete and secure. Once you file online, your taxes are fully filed.
In specific cases, the CRA may ask for additional documentation upon review of your file. These documents, once requested, may need to be submitted by mail.
Can I correct mistakes after filing online?
Yes! If you discover a mistake after filing, you can (and should) correct it online. The CRA allows you to make changes to your submitted taxes through its Change My Return service. This can often be completed directly within your tax software.
When will I get my refund?
Refund timing will depend on each case and each tax season. However, filing your taxes online and signing up for direct deposit with the CRA is the fastest way to get your return. Refunds are typically issued within two weeks of electronic filing if you’re signed up for direct deposit.
What’s the best way to make sure I include every income slip and register for every credit I’m eligible for when filing my taxes?
Forgetting to include all of your income slips, missing credits you’re eligible for, and failing to input all of your year’s receipts are common mistakes that are made during tax season. Using guided software greatly reduces this risk, as it walks you through each step to make sure you’ve submitted all of your information.
On top of that, the CRA’s digital Change My Return service lets you add additional income and credits after submitting, so you can make sure you’ve included every figure even after filing.
At-a-glance: your online tax filing essentials
| What you need | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| SIN | Identifies you to the CRA |
| Income slips (T4, T5) | Reports earnings |
| Receipts and credits | Lowers tax owed |
| CRA-certified software | Required for NETFILE |
| CRA My Account (optional) | Enables auto-fill and allows you to securely access your past and present tax information online |
Final thoughts
Filing your first tax return doesn’t have to be intimidating. With proper preparation and CRA-approved software, online filing can be faster and easier than you expect.
TurboTax and UFile guide you step by step, explain the forms, and help ensure accuracy. By gathering your documents early, choosing the right software, and following these steps, you can submit your taxes confidently.
Ready to get started?
Explore CRA-certified tax software at Best Buy Canada and choose the option that best fits your needs.
While you’re preparing, you may also find it helpful to pick up additional office tools for extra security. Consider a printer to keep physical records, a shredder to safely dispose of old documents, or a hard drive for secure storage.
