Tax Season Starts February 23: How to Prepare Before Filing Opens in Canada

Tax season in Canada officially begins on February 23. While filing may not yet be open, this is the ideal time to prepare your documents and avoid last-minute stress.

Preparing before tax season starts helps ensure a smooth filing process, faster refunds, and fewer errors.

Here is what you should do in the days leading up to opening day.

1. Start Collecting Your T-Slips

Most T-slips begin arriving in late February. Some may already be available electronically through CRA My Account.

Common income slips include:

• T4 – Employment income

• T5 – Investment income

• T4A – Pension or other income

• T4E – Employment Insurance

• T4A(P) – CPP benefits

• T4A(OAS) – Old Age Security

Even if some slips are not yet available, create a checklist now so nothing is missed.

2. Gather Receipts for Deductions and Credits

Tax savings often come from properly documented expenses. Use this time to organize:

• Medical and dental receipts

• Charitable donation receipts

• Tuition forms (T2202)

• Childcare receipts

• Union or professional dues

• RRSP contribution receipts

Organizing receipts now prevents delays once filing opens.

3. Review Any Life Changes During the Year

Before tax season begins, confirm whether any of the following changed:

• Marital status

• New dependants

• Change of address

• New employment or self-employment income

• Rental income

• Investment sales

These changes may affect your tax return and benefit eligibility.

4. Log Into CRA My Account

Before filing season opens:

• Ensure you can access CRA My Account

• Confirm direct deposit details are correct

• Review carryforward amounts (RRSP, tuition)

• Check instalment payments (if applicable)

Resolving login or access issues now prevents delays later.

5. Create a Simple Tax Folder

Whether digital or physical, create one organized place for:

• Income slips

• Receipts

• Prior-year tax return

• Notices of Assessment

Preparation reduces filing time and improves accuracy.

Why Preparing Before February 23 Matters

Getting ready before tax season officially opens helps:

• Avoid last-minute stress

• Prevent missed deductions

• Reduce filing errors

• Speed up refunds

• Improve overall tax accuracy

Tax season runs more smoothly when preparation starts early.

Final Thoughts

With tax season starting February 23, now is the time to organize your documents and review your financial information. A few simple steps taken today can make filing straightforward once the season opens.