Ways to do your taxes - Personal income tax
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Personal income tax
Ways to do your taxes
The Digital File My Return service is no longer available. To file your tax return, select one of the options listed below.
There are several ways to do your taxes, including options that are free and others by invite from the CRA.
On this page
Choose a filing option
Certified tax software (electronic filing)
Use CRA-approved tax software to calculate and file your taxes electronically. Software options include online, downloadable, or installed on your computer, mobile, or tablet.
Who can use: Canadian residents
Cost: Can vary, free options available
Processing time: Typically, within 2 weeks
For details: Certified tax software
Authorize a representative
Authorize a family member, friend, or an accountant to act on your behalf to complete your taxes and access your tax accounts.
Who can use: Anyone
Cost: Can vary, free options available
Processing time: Typically, within 2 weeks
For details: Representative authorization
Free tax clinics
Find a free tax clinic where a volunteer may be able to do your taxes.
Who can use: People with a modest income, and a simple tax situation
Cost: Free
Processing time: Typically, within 2 weeks
For details: Free tax clinics
Discounter (tax preparer)
A discounter is a tax preparer who calculates your refund and pays you a discounted tax refund right away, before they file your tax return.
Who can use: Anyone
Cost: Can vary
Processing time: Discounted refund is paid by the tax preparer right away
For details: Discounter information
Paper tax return
Complete and file your taxes manually on a paper return.
Who can use: Anyone
Cost: Free
Processing time: 8 weeks if filed on time
For details: Get a T1 income tax package
Filing options by invitation only
The CRA will send an invitation letter if you are eligible to either file your tax return through an automated phone line or be assisted by a CRA agent.
SimpleFile by phone automated phone service
CRA will send an invitation letter to eligible people. To file your taxes, enter your information through the automated phone line.
Who can use: Invited people with a low or fixed income, and a simple tax situation
Cost: Free
Processing time: Typically, within 2 weeks
Tax filing assistance from a CRA agent
Complete and file your taxes over the phone with a CRA agent. The CRA will send an invitation to those eligible through mail or My Account.
Who can use: Invited people with a modest income and a simple tax situation
Cost: Free
Processing time: Typically, within 2 weeks
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- Date modified:
- 2025-02-18