This article has been updated from a previous version.
For some Canadians, tax season is a breeze, especially for those that only have one T4 slip to submit and no dependents. For others, tax season can be an added stress to an already busy schedule.
Here is some information to help you with common tax-time problems that will (hopefully) make this year easier.
What to do if you’re missing T4 information
Losing or misplacing a T4 slip can happen, but don’t panic. There are several ways to recover your information and file accurately on time.
A T4 slip summarizes how much you were paid before deductions, including contributions to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and other payroll-related deductions.
Employers are legally required to issue T4 slips no later than February 29, 2025. Even if you no longer work for the same employer, they must send you your T4 slip. If you haven’t received it, try these steps:
- Check the CRA’s My Account portal
The Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) My Account portal is your go-to for accessing missing T4s and other tax slips. Employers submit T4s directly to the CRA, so the document may already be available online. - Contact your former employer
If your T4 doesn’t appear on the CRA portal, reach out to the employer directly. Make sure they have your updated contact information. - Call the CRA
If all else fails, contact the CRA yourself. Be ready with last year’s tax return and personal information to verify your identity. They may help you retrieve details or guide you on how to proceed.
If you can’t access your T4 slip, don’t skip filing your taxes. Use your last pay stub to calculate approximate earnings and deductions. The CRA will review your return, so be transparent about the missing information and file an adjustment later if needed.
Read more: Forgot to file your taxes last year? What you need to know
Filing taxes if you’re self-employed
For self-employed individuals, organization is everything. Here’s how to stay on top of your taxes and ensure accuracy when filing.
- Track income and expenses all year
Use accounting software or an Excel spreadsheet to record business income and deductible expenses. Keep all receipts and invoices for six years, as the CRA may request them during an audit. - Separate personal and business finances
Having separate bank accounts for personal and business transactions simplifies expense tracking and ensures transparency. - Understand reasonable expenses
The CRA allows self-employed individuals to deduct reasonable business-related expenses, such as home office costs, meals for business meetings, and vehicle use related directly to your work. When in doubt, consult a tax expert or use the CRA guidelines for clarity. - Manage HST/GST obligations
If your yearly income is more than $30,000, you need to sign up to collect and pay GST/HST. Smaller businesses can file occasionally, but those making over $1.5 million a year might need to file every three months. - Plan for income tax payments
Unlike salaried employees, self-employed individuals must calculate and remit income taxes themselves. To avoid a giant tax bill at the end of the year, consider making monthly or quarterly installment payments.
Read more: Key dates in 2025 that small business owner should know
Who to call for extra help
Many people can get by with just their T4, a few receipts and the latest package of Turbotax. But, if you just don’t have the time to figure everything out, there’s no harm in calling in reinforcements.
Consider these options for support.
- NETFILE-certified tax software
Online programs simplify the filing process. They’re intuitive and can spot potential deductions and credits you may miss otherwise. - Hire a professional
Accountants are invaluable for complicated returns. They can help identify all eligible deductions and ensure compliance with CRA regulations. - Use free CRA services
For those with modest incomes, CRA-sponsored tax clinics are a great resource. A free tax clinic offers eligible individuals the opportunity to have their tax returns prepared at no cost by volunteers. These free services are available virtually and in-person. Simply visit the CRA’s site to find one near you.
Key dates to remember
- Tax filing deadline: April 30, 2025 (or June 15, 2025, for self-employed individuals).
- Payment deadline: April 30, 2025. Any taxes owed must be paid to avoid interest charges.
Staying organized and taking advantage of CRA tools can make tax season less stressful, whether you’re filing with a missing T4 or managing self-employment income. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional help or reach out to the CRA for guidance.
