Canada Tax Preparation Checklist

Woman filling out taxes checklist

When tax season rolls around, it can be hard to figure out what you need in order to file your taxes. The papers that you need are based on your financial situation and employment situation, so they differ for everyone.

What to do about TFSA Over-Contributions

Couple doing over-contribution on their TFSA account

TFSAs, also known as tax-free savings accounts, are a great way to save money. You can earn some interest on your money while avoiding paying any taxes on the money. Unlike an RRSP account or even mutual funds, with a TFSA, you can take money out of your account whenever you want to.

Overview of Self-Employment Taxes in Canada

Man filling out self employment taxes in Canada

Most of the time, when you are employed, taxes are very straightforward. Most of the time, it’s just a T4 and any RRSP deductions if you have them. If you earn self-employment income, it can be much more complicated to file personal tax returns.

First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit in Canada

Piggy bank showing first time homebuyer tax credit in Canada

You may be wondering if you can afford a place as a first-time home buyer. Luckily, the federal government offers tax incentives like the First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit and other financial incentives to help offset the cost of buying a home. Read on to find out which other tax incentives could work with your specific situation.

What’s a Tax Refund vs Tax Deduction

Tax refund vs tax deduction

When it comes to tax season, the goal is to save as much money as you can, especially with the increase in rising costs. One of the most common ways to gain tax savings with taxes owed is with tax deductions. However, just because you claim tax deductions doesn’t mean that you’re going to get a tax refund. These two things are very different.

What’s the Capital Gains Tax in Canada?

Capital gains tax numbers on paper

Before we get into capital gains tax, let’s first discuss what a capital gain is. Essentially, a capital gain is a profit that’s been made from an asset that’s increased in value over time since you’ve owned it.

Important Differences Between Marginal vs. Average Tax Rate in Canada

Couple comparing marginal vs. average tax rate

When it comes to filing your taxes during tax season in Canada, you’ll notice that there’s a marginal tax rate imposed that is used to calculate the amount of tax you pay. There’s also an average federal tax rate, which is the percentage of total tax you pay on your annual taxable income. While both of these rates are different, they’re equally important.

A Guide to Canada’s T1 General Form

Canada T1 general form

Filing your taxes can be confusing, and with tax season just around the corner, you may need help knowing where to begin. Don’t worry, though. It can be challenging to know where to start, especially if your taxes aren’t very straightforward.

An Overview of T4 Slips in Canada

T4 slip on computer screen

With tax season around the corner, it’s time to start getting your paperwork together before it’s time to file. What you need in order to file your taxes and determine how much tax you owe depends on your current financial situation and how you earn your income. That said, for most who file their annual income tax and benefit return, one of the most important things they’re going to need is a T4.

How to Fill Out a TD1 Form in Canada

TD1 form being filled out

When you start a new job, usually, one of the first things you have to complete is a TD1 Personal Tax Credits Return form, which is also referred to as a personal tax form.