6 Ways to File Your Canadian Income Taxes

File Your Canadian Income Taxes by Mail

No matter how simple or complicated your income tax return is, this method is available to everyone. The only cost is a stamp. To get started, see Filing Your Canadian Income Taxes - The Basics.

File Your Canadian Income Taxes by Phone

TELEFILE lets people with simple tax returns file by phone. With TELEFILE you'll get an immediate confirmation that your return has been received, and you'll get a faster refund than filing by mail. TELEFILE is free.

Use the Service for Seniors to File Your Taxes by Phone

The CRA invites Canadian seniors who have very simple taxes to use the Service for Seniors. This is a simplified version of TELEFILE and requires very little input.

File Your Canadian Income Taxes Online

Most Canadians can now file their income taxes over the Internet using NETFILE. You prepare your income tax form using commercial software or a Web application that has been certified by the CRA. Some software certified for use with NETFILE is free for individuals with low or modest incomes.

Pay a Service Provider to File Your Taxes Online Using EFILE

Use EFILE to prepare your own income tax return then take it to a service provider to file it electronically, for a fee. The advantage is it should be processed quickly.

Hire an Accountant to Do Your Income Taxes

If your taxes are complicated, if you run a small business in Canada, or you just don't feel you have the time or inclination to file your taxes yourself, you might want to use an accountant to prepare and file your income tax return. Susan Ward, About.com Small Business Canada, has tips on How to Find a Good Accountant. You'll still need to spend some time Getting Your Income Tax Records Ready for Your Accountant.