With the April 30 deadline for personal tax returns just days away, a new survey from H&R Block Canada reveals that nine million Canadians have yet to file. This represents 28 percent of the population, according to the tax-filing firm's findings released on April 27.
In comparison, 22 percent, or approximately 7.3 million Canadians, were late filers in 2025. The survey, conducted between April 15 and 17 among 1,500 members of the Angus Reid Forum, highlights a significant increase in procrastination this year.
Reasons for Delayed Filing
Among those who have not yet filed, 69 percent say they simply haven't gotten around to it but plan to do so before the deadline. Seven percent admit they are procrastinating because they worry they will owe money. More than one in ten (12 percent) intend to file after the deadline due to lack of time, while five percent cite difficulties accessing their online CRA account, known as My Account, as a barrier.
Regional Breakdown
Ontario leads the country with the highest proportion of procrastinators at 33 percent, followed by Saskatchewan and Manitoba (32 percent), British Columbia (30 percent), Atlantic Canada (28 percent), Alberta (22 percent), and Quebec (21 percent).
Penalties for Late Filing
Late filers face a five percent penalty on any balance of taxes owed, plus one percent for each full month of delay, up to 12 months. Interest continues to accrue on any unpaid balance until it is fully paid. Canadians who have already been penalized for late filing within the past year will see penalties double: ten percent for the late filing penalty and two percent per month of delay.
Filing late can also delay refunds and federal benefit calculations, which may impact those who rely on these payments. The Canada Revenue Agency recommends filing electronically, as e-filed returns are processed within two weeks compared to eight weeks for paper returns. Almost 93 percent of 2023 tax returns were filed electronically, and combining e-filing with direct deposit can deliver refunds within eight business days.
Why Canadians Procrastinate
According to a 2007 report from Investment Executive, the complexity of tax filing, low financial literacy, and lack of confidence contribute to procrastination. Worry about overlooking write-offs, credits, or benefits adds pressure. Some Canadians simply delay because dealing with taxes feels less stressful than facing potential debts to the CRA.
