When you can start filing 2025 taxes in Canada, and how to get your refund faster
The Canada Revenue Agency opens online filing for 2025 returns on Feb. 23, 2026. Prep your CRA My Account, enable multi-factor authentication and sign up for direct deposit to speed refunds.
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By Torontoer Staff
The Canada Revenue Agency will begin accepting 2025 tax returns on February 23, 2026. Filing online and using direct deposit are the fastest routes to a refund, with the CRA saying online returns are usually processed in about two weeks.
Paper returns take longer. The CRA estimates about eight weeks for mailed filings. If you want your refund as soon as possible, take a few steps now so you can file on day one.
Key dates to bookmark
- February 23, 2026: CRA begins accepting 2025 tax returns online
- March 2, 2026: RRSP contribution deadline to apply to 2025 taxes
- April 30, 2026: Filing deadline for most individuals and payment deadline for taxes owing
- June 15, 2026: Filing deadline for self-employed Canadians and their spouses
Official word from the CRA
The Canada Revenue Agency will begin accepting 2025 tax returns on February 23, 2026.
Canada Revenue Agency
What to do now to avoid delays
Address account access, authentication and information updates before filing season starts. Waiting until February or March can mean long wait times if you need help by phone.
- Log in to CRA My Account and confirm your sign-in details. If you have forgotten credentials, reset them well before late winter.
- Set up multi-factor authentication. From February 2026, users must have a backup MFA method, such as an authenticator app or passcode grid, to access My Account.
- Register for direct deposit or confirm your banking information in My Account so refunds go directly to your account.
- Update personal details, including address, phone number and marital status, to avoid benefit or credit interruptions.
- Collect tax slips and receipts now, including T4s, T5s, RRSP contribution receipts and any slips for rental income, unemployment benefits or investment income.
- Choose certified NETFILE-compatible tax software or appoint a tax professional if your return is complex.
How filing method affects processing time
Online returns submitted through NETFILE-compatible software are typically processed faster than paper returns. The CRA estimates about two weeks for early online filers and roughly eight weeks for mailed returns. Direct deposit shortens the time between processing and seeing funds in your account.
If you expect to owe taxes, the payment deadline for most individuals is April 30, 2026. Paying on time avoids interest charges. Self-employed filers have until June 15 to file, but any tax owing is still due April 30.
Filing options and practical tips
Most Canadians will get the fastest outcome by filing electronically and opting for direct deposit. Use certified tax software to NETFILE your return, or ask your accountant to file electronically for you.
- Verify T-slips and receipts match the amounts reported by employers and financial institutions before you file.
- Keep digital copies of receipts and documents in case the CRA requests verification.
- If you expect a refund, file early in the filing window. Early filers are often processed sooner than those who file near the deadline.
- Avoid last-minute calls to CRA. Resolve sign-in and authentication issues ahead of time.
If you qualify for benefits or credits linked to your tax return, timely filing also helps ensure continued payments and avoids interruptions.
When to consider professional help
If your return involves business income, rental property, complicated investments, or a large number of deductions, a tax professional can reduce errors and tax risk. Professionals usually file electronically, which maintains a quick processing pathway.
Preparing now takes less time than scrambling during the busiest weeks. Confirm your CRA My Account access, enable MFA, set up direct deposit and gather slips so you can file as soon as online filing opens on February 23, 2026.
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