As the 2025 tax season approaches, it’s essential for Canadian individuals to understand the key filing and payment dates to avoid penalties, interest charges, and delays in refunds or benefits. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) sets firm deadlines, and knowing them helps you stay compliant, organized, and financially prepared.
1. When Can You File Your 2024 Return?
CRA’s certified NETFILE service opens on February 24, 2025, allowing you to file your 2024 T1 Income Tax and Benefit return electronically :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
2. Standard Filing & Payment Deadline: April 30, 2025
The general deadline for both filing and paying any balance owing is April 30, 2025. This date applies to most Canadians without self-employment income :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
3. Extended Filing Window for Self‑Employed Individuals
If you or your spouse/common-law partner earned self-employment or business income in 2024, your T1 return filing deadline is extended to June 15, 2025 (technically June 16, 2025, as June 15 falls on a Sunday). However, any taxes owing must still be paid by April 30 to avoid interest :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
4. Payment Deadline Doesn’t Change
Regardless of extended filing time, any balance owing must be paid by April 30, 2025. Late payments incur daily compounded interest immediately after the deadline :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
5. Instalment Payment Dates for 2025
If your CRA account shows a tax owing of more than $3,000 (or $1,800 in Quebec) in current or preceding years, you’ll need to make instalment payments on the following dates :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}:
- March 15, 2025
- June 15, 2025
- September 15, 2025
- December 15, 2025
6. RRSP Contribution Deadline: March 3, 2025
Contributions made to RRSPs, PRPPs, or SPPs on or before March 3, 2025 can be deducted against your 2024 income :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
7. Weekend and Holiday Adjustments
If any deadline falls on a weekend or CRA-recognized holiday, your filing or payment is considered on time if the CRA receives it by the next business day :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
8. Final Returns After Death
If someone died in 2024, their final return is usually due by April 30, 2025. If they died between November and December, the deadline extends to six months after death. Self-employed statuses adjust deadlines similarly :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
9. Why Meeting Deadlines Matters
- Filing late—with a balance owing? Expect a 5% penalty, plus 1% per month of delay.
- Missing payments? Interest starts accruing daily after April 30.
- Not filing at all could result in denied benefits, assessments based on estimates, or collection actions.
Even if you can’t pay, file by the deadline to avoid costly penalties :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
10. Filing Tips for a Smooth Process
- Start early: Filing from late February ensures slips are available and refunds arrive faster.
- Track instalments: If you owe, ensure quarterly payments are made on time.
- Maximise RRSP: Contribute before March 3 to reduce taxable income.
- Monitor CRA account: Use MyAccount to view NOAs, balances owing, and upcoming deadlines.
11. Summary Table: Key 2025 Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| NETFILE Opens | February 24, 2025 |
| RRSP Contribution Deadline | March 3, 2025 |
| Instalment Payment | March 15, 2025 |
| General Filing & Payment Due | April 30, 2025 |
| Instalment Payments | June 15, Sept 15, Dec 15, 2025 |
| Self‑Employed Filing Due | June 15 (16), 2025 |
12. Final Thoughts
Staying ahead of these critical dates can save you unnecessary penalties, preserve eligibility for credits, and improve your financial planning. Set reminders now, organize records early, and file on time—even if you can’t pay the full amount.
If your situation is complex or you’re unsure, consider professional advice or using CRA-certified software. Proper planning ensures compliance and peace of mind during tax season.
