Check your income sources
Gather employment, self-employment, investment and rental income records. Identify missing slips or bookkeeping gaps early. A complete picture helps avoid corrections after filing.
Review eligible deductions and credits
Eligibility depends on the specific rule and your circumstances. Review items such as eligible medical expenses, donations, childcare expenses and employment-related claims where applicable. Retain supporting documents.
Understand RRSP timing
RRSP contributions have their own annual deadline and deduction-limit rules. Do not assume every contribution is fully deductible. Check your available contribution room through CRA records and consider the effect on cash flow.
Keep self-employment records separate
If you work as a contractor or sole proprietor, organize invoices, expenses, vehicle-use records and GST/HST documentation. Personal purchases should not be mixed with business costs.
Review changes in your family situation
Marriage, separation, dependants, moves and other life events can affect benefits and tax reporting. Ensure CRA has current information where reporting is required.
Prepare for filing season now
Create a secure folder for slips and receipts, list outstanding documents and schedule a review before filing. Early preparation reduces avoidable delays.
Official CRA resource: Canada Revenue Agency. General information; rules and eligibility depend on the facts.