You do not need to pay an accountant or a tax filing service to submit your Canadian tax return. The CRA offers NETFILE, a free electronic filing system, and there are multiple certified software options that make the process straightforward, even for first-timers.
What Is NETFILE?
NETFILE is the CRA's secure electronic filing service. Instead of mailing a paper return, you complete your tax return using certified software and submit it directly to the CRA online. It's fast, secure, and free. Refunds are processed in about two weeks when you have direct deposit set up.
Certified Free Tax Software Options
The CRA maintains a list of NETFILE-certified software at canada.ca. Several of them are free:
Wealthsimple Tax: The most beginner-friendly option. Pay-what-you-want model (you can file for free). Excellent for newcomers with simple returns. Available in English and French.
TurboTax Free: Free for simple returns (T4 income, basic credits). Upgrade required for more complex situations like self-employment.
GenuTax Standard: Fully free, desktop software, works well for most standard returns.
H&R Block Free Online: Another solid free option for straightforward situations.
StudioTax: Free for up to 20 returns, good for families.
What You Need Before You Start
- Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- All T slips (T4, T5, T3, etc.)
- Your Notice of Assessment from last year (if you filed before)
- Your date of arrival in Canada (if you're a first-time filer)
- Bank account info for direct deposit (account number, transit number, institution number)
How NETFILE Works
- Create a CRA My Account at canada.ca.
- Download or open your chosen free software.
- Answer the interview-style questions, the software guides you through each section.
- Enter your T slip numbers when prompted.
- Review the summary, your refund or balance owing will appear clearly.
- Click "File" to submit via NETFILE.
- The CRA sends a confirmation number within minutes.
Auto-Fill My Return
If you use CRA My Account, most tax software can auto-fill your T slips directly from the CRA's system. This feature is called Auto-fill my return (AFR) and it pulls your T4s, RRSP receipts, and other slips automatically, reducing the chance of data entry errors.
Free In-Person Help in Ottawa
If you'd rather have someone help you in person, the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) runs free clinics across Ottawa every spring. Eligible residents include those earning under roughly $35,000 (single) or $45,000 (couple). Locations include libraries, community centres, and settlement agencies. Search "free tax clinic Ottawa" on canada.ca starting in February.
The Bottom Line
Most newcomers to Canada have simple returns, one or two T4s, basic credits. Free software handles this easily. Save the accountant fees for the year you start a business or own rental property.
