Tax Deadlines in Canada

Important Canadian Tax Deadlines Every Individual and Small Business Should Know

Funke

3/8/20261 min read

Man reading a document in a kitchen
Man reading a document in a kitchen

Missing a tax deadline in Canada can result in penalties and interest charges from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Staying on top of key dates is one of the simplest ways to protect your finances. Here is an overview of the most important deadlines for individuals and small businesses.

Personal Tax Deadlines

  • April 30 — Deadline to file your personal income tax return and pay any balance owing. This applies to most individuals.

  • June 15 — Extended filing deadline for self-employed individuals and their spouses or common-law partners. Note: Any balance owing is still due by April 30, even if you file by June 15.

Small Business and Corporate Tax Deadlines

  • Corporate tax returns are due six months after the end of your corporation's fiscal year end. For example, if your fiscal year ends December 31, your return is due June 30.

  • Corporate tax balances owing are generally due two or three months after the fiscal year end, depending on the size of your corporation.

  • GST/HST filing deadlines vary depending on your reporting period — monthly, quarterly, or annually. Annual filers generally have a deadline of June 15, with any balance owing due April 30.

Instalment Payment Deadlines If you consistently owe more than $3,000 in taxes at year end, the CRA may require you to make quarterly instalment payments. These are typically due in March, June, September, and December.

Payroll Deadlines If you have employees, payroll remittances to the CRA are due on specific dates depending on your remitter type. Missing payroll remittances carries significant penalties.

Tips to Stay on Track

  • Set calendar reminders at least two weeks before each deadline

  • Gather your documents early — do not wait until the last week

  • Work with a CPA year-round, not just at tax time

  • If you cannot pay in full, file on time anyway — late filing penalties are separate from and in addition to interest on amounts owing.

FAB Tax CPA helps individuals and small businesses in Houston, BC stay on top of their tax obligations. Contact us today to get prepared.