Filing your taxes in Canada involves more than just submitting a single return. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) uses a variety of tax forms to gather information about income, deductions, credits, benefits, and tax obligations. Each form serves a specific purpose and knowing when and how to use them ensures a smoother filing experience and helps avoid costly errors or missed opportunities.
This comprehensive guide covers the most common federal tax forms in Canada, who needs them, and what they are used for. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, retired, or a student, understanding these forms can help you better manage your tax situation.
1. T1 General – Income Tax and Benefit Return
The T1 General is the standard federal income tax return that all individuals must complete each year. It is used to report all sources of income, claim deductions and credits, and determine whether you owe taxes or are entitled to a refund.
This form is also used to apply for benefit programs such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and GST/HST credits.
2. T4 – Statement of Remuneration Paid
The T4 slip is issued by employers to employees and reports employment income earned in a calendar year. It shows salary, bonuses, commissions, income tax withheld, and contributions to CPP and EI.
Use the T4 to complete the income sections of your T1 return, primarily line 10100.
3. T5 – Statement of Investment Income
The T5 slip is provided by banks and financial institutions when you earn investment income such as interest, dividends, or royalties over $50. It’s used to report amounts on lines 12000 (dividends) and 12100 (interest).
4. T3 – Statement of Trust Income Allocations and Designations
If you receive income from mutual funds, estates, or other trusts, the T3 slip reports interest, dividends, capital gains, and return of capital. This form is essential for those with complex investment holdings.
5. T4A – Statement of Pension, Retirement, Annuity, and Other Income
The T4A is used for various income types not covered by the T4, including pension payments, annuities, self-employment income, scholarships, and government relief programs like CERB/CRB (in prior years).
6. T2202 – Tuition and Enrolment Certificate
Issued by qualifying educational institutions, the T2202 certifies tuition amounts and the months of enrollment for students. Use this to claim the tuition tax credit or transfer unused amounts to a parent or spouse.
7. T2125 – Statement of Business or Professional Activities
Self-employed individuals, freelancers, and contractors must complete the T2125 to report business income and deduct business-related expenses. The resulting net income is reported on line 13500 of the T1 return.
8. T777 – Statement of Employment Expenses
The T777 is used to claim work-related expenses if your employer requires you to cover certain costs such as a home office, travel, or tools. A signed T2200 or T2200S is needed to validate your eligibility.
9. T4E – Statement of Employment Insurance and Other Benefits
Issued by Service Canada, the T4E reports Employment Insurance (EI) benefits, repayment amounts, and tax withheld. Report it on line 11900 of your T1 return.
10. T5013 – Statement of Partnership Income
If you’re a partner in a business or investment partnership, the T5013 provides your share of income, capital gains, and credits. It’s necessary for partnerships with more than five members or if CRA requires a return.
11. T1135 – Foreign Income Verification Statement
Canadian residents who hold foreign property valued at more than $100,000 must complete T1135. This includes foreign stocks, real estate, and bank accounts. It is filed separately from the T1 but is mandatory for compliance.
12. T1-ADJ – T1 Adjustment Request
If you need to change your return after filing, the T1-ADJ allows you to correct errors or add missed deductions. You can also submit adjustments online using CRA’s MyAccount service.
13. T2201 – Disability Tax Credit Certificate
The T2201 is the application form for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). A qualified medical practitioner must complete and certify it. Once approved, you can claim the DTC or transfer it to a supporting relative.
14. RC66 – Canada Child Benefits Application
Use RC66 to apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), the GST/HST credit, and related provincial/territorial programs. This is typically filed after the birth of a child or when custody/residency changes.
15. RC268 – Direct Deposit Request
The RC268 form allows you to set up or update direct deposit information for receiving tax refunds, benefit payments, or credit deposits. This can also be managed via CRA’s MyAccount portal.
16. T3RET – T3 Trust Income Tax and Information Return
Trusts, including estates, must file the T3RET annually to report income distributed to beneficiaries. This form is often used in conjunction with the T3 slip that beneficiaries receive.
17. T3010 – Registered Charity Information Return
Registered charities in Canada must file the T3010 annually to maintain their charitable status. It discloses revenue, expenses, and activities and is required within six months of the fiscal year-end.
18. T5007 – Statement of Benefits
This slip is issued to individuals who received workers’ compensation benefits or social assistance. While not usually taxable, amounts on T5007 affect eligibility for other credits such as the GST/HST credit and Canada Workers Benefit.
19. T1032 – Joint Election to Split Pension Income
If you’re retired, you may be eligible to split eligible pension income with your spouse or common-law partner. T1032 allows this election and can help reduce overall family tax liability.
Final Thoughts
Understanding which CRA tax forms apply to your situation ensures better accuracy, helps you avoid delays, and unlocks more tax-saving opportunities. The right forms help you properly report income, claim available credits, and receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
Before filing, gather your forms, review CRA’s current list of applicable slips, and consult a tax professional if your return includes complex items like foreign assets, business income, or multiple income streams. Filing correctly starts with knowing the forms.
