Canadians can start filing their 2025 income tax and benefit return online on February 23, 2026. If you want a faster refund and fewer CRA follow-ups, the best strategy is simple: be ready before NETFILE opens — and file only when your information is complete.

At S & V TAX, we help clients across Canada file accurately, claim the right deductions, and avoid common mistakes that trigger delays. If you want us to file your return for you, visit our Personal Tax Filing Services page or reach out through our Contact page.

Filing on opening day can be a smart move — if you have all your slips and your details are correct. Filing too early (missing a slip, guessing an amount, forgetting a credit) often leads to amendments, CRA matching issues, or review letters that delay refunds.

Rule of thumb: File on Feb 23 only after you confirm your slips + CRA account details are up to date.

If you haven’t done it yet, start with our full prep guide: 2026 Tax Season Checklist (Before Feb 23 NETFILE Opens). Below is the shorter version you can finish quickly.

Confirm CRA My Account access (avoid lockouts on peak days)

• Set up / verify direct deposit for faster refunds


• Gather all slips (T4, T4A, T5, tuition, RRSP receipts, etc.)


• Organize deductions (medical, donations, child care, moving, etc.)


• Check last year’s Notice of Assessment (carry-forwards like RRSP, tuition)

Need help with CRA setup? Read: How to Set Up CRA My Account + Direct Deposit.

On filing day, your goal is speed and accuracy. Here’s a simple process that helps you file faster while reducing CRA issues.

Do a final slip check (don’t guess missing amounts)

1. Confirm direct deposit and your current address in CRA My Account


2. Match names + SIN details exactly (especially for couples/families)


3. Review deductions/credits and keep receipts organized


4. Submit and save confirmation (keep PDFs / screenshots)

Refund delays are usually caused by preventable issues. Here are the most common ones we see every tax season.

Missing slips (CRA matching catches it later)

• Incorrect direct deposit or outdated banking details


• Large or unusual claims without receipts ready


• Self-employment income reported without clean expense totals


• Not responding to CRA requests (letters go unanswered)

Pro tip: Keep a single “2025 Tax Folder” with slips + receipts so you can respond quickly if CRA asks later.

If you earned side income, gig income, or self-employment income in 2025, don’t rush. The CRA expects accurate totals and reasonable support for your expenses. Organize your numbers first — your future self will thank you.

Total income (invoices, deposits, e-transfers, sales reports)

• Summarize expenses by category (software, phone, supplies, advertising, etc.)


• Keep receipts together (PDFs/photos are fine)


• If you charge GST/HST, ensure your return totals are ready

If you need support with GST/HST compliance, our team can help here: GST/HST Filing Services.

If you want a smooth filing experience on (or right after) Feb 23, we’ll help you get organized and file with confidence. We support Canadians across the country remotely and in-person by appointment.

Personal tax filing (T1) with deductions optimized and CRA-compliant reporting — view personal tax services

• T4 support for employers (payroll slips + reporting) — view T4 filing services


• Corporate tax filing (T2) for incorporated businesses — view corporate & business tax services

Want to file quickly and avoid CRA delays?

Visit our Personal Tax Filing Services page or Contact us for a personalized quote. Students: $40 flat rate | Other personal returns: from $40 + HST.

Be ready now — and file confidently when NETFILE opens on February 23, 2026.