The official tax filing deadline for most Canadians has passed, but you can still file or correct errors on your return. Jamie Golombek provides guidance on what to do if you made a mistake or missed the April 30 deadline.
Filing Statistics for 2026 Tax Season
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) reports that 29.7 million tax returns were filed as of May 10, with 95% submitted online. The CRA issued nearly 17 million refunds totaling more than $39 billion, with an average refund of $2,282. Over 14 million individuals used the Auto-fill my return service to complete their 2025 tax return.
During the official filing season from February 23 to April 30, the CRA's contact centres received more than 6.5 million calls, about 120,000 per day. Despite high volume, the agency answered over 75% of unique callers, peaking at 83%. Service levels were regularly reported online for transparency.
Digital Services Growth
Digital services continued to expand in 2026. Approximately 23 million users are registered for a CRA account, enabling them to track return status, view notices, and access live agent support. The CRA added new account recovery features to help locked-out users regain access. The generative AI chatbot conducted over 445,000 chat sessions, answering more than 657,000 tax-related questions.
Over 480,000 tax returns were filed through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program as of March 31. Lower-income Canadians with simple tax situations used SimpleFile services, filing over 73,000 returns digitally or by phone.
What to Do If You Haven't Filed Yet
If you haven't filed your 2025 return, consider doing so even if you had minimal or no income and owe no tax. Filing ensures you can access valuable benefits and credits. Delaying could result in delays receiving benefit payments starting in July, even if you are eligible. These include the newly renamed Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB), formerly the GST/HST credit, which offers up to $1,890 for a family of four and up to $950 for a single individual. The first quarterly payment is scheduled for July 3, but you will only receive it after your 2025 return is assessed.
Correcting Mistakes on Your Return
If you already filed but discovered an error, you can request a change. The CRA allows you to adjust your return online through your CRA account or by mailing a paper T1-ADJ form. Common corrections include changes to income, deductions, or credits. You have up to 10 years from the end of the tax year to make adjustments for most items.
For self-employed individuals, the filing deadline is June 15. However, any balance due is still due by April 30 to avoid interest charges. If you missed the deadline, file as soon as possible to minimize penalties and interest.
Key Takeaways
- The tax deadline for most Canadians was April 30, but you can still file or correct errors.
- Filing late may delay benefit payments like the CGEB, so file promptly.
- Use the CRA's digital tools to adjust your return or check your status.
- Contact the CRA for assistance if needed; service levels have improved.
Jamie Golombek is a tax expert and columnist. This article provides general information and should not be considered professional tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for your specific situation.
