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Filing your taxes has its benefits

Last updated on April 9, 2024

You may get help with your cost of living by filing your income taxes. Filing your income taxes provides you access to direct payment benefits and refundable tax credits.

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Tax benefits and credits available to you

  • The B.C. family benefit provides a tax-free monthly payment to families with children under the age of 18.
  • The B.C. climate action tax credit is a quarterly payment that helps offset the impact of the carbon tax paid by individuals and families.
  • You can reduce the amount of B.C. personal income tax you owe with basic tax credits. However, if the total of these credits is more than the amount you owe, you won't get a refund of the difference. These are called non-refundable credits.
  • There are also many federal benefits available, including the Canada child benefit, the child disability benefit, the GST/HST credit, and the disability tax credit.
  • The B.C. renter’s tax credit will give $400 annually to low- and moderate-income renter households with an adjusted income of $60,000 or less in 2023. Those with an income of more than $60,000 and less than $80,000 may receive a reduced amount. (Available when you file your income taxes in 2024).

How to file your taxes

You file your B.C. income tax return with your federal T1 Income Tax Return and send it to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Step 1: Gather your tax slips or other documents to report your income and claim your deductions

Step 2: Choose a filing option to complete your return – there are several ways to complete your personal income tax return, including various free or low-cost options

Step 3: Send your completed return to the Canada Revenue Agency

Learn more from the Canada Revenue Agency about filing taxes.

People new to Canada or B.C.

If you are new to Canada, you may also be eligible to receive tax benefits and credits. Learn more about income taxes and benefit payments and how to get started.

If you move to B.C. from another Canadian province, update your address with the Canada Revenue Agency as soon as possible as you may be eligible to receive B.C. benefits.

When to file your taxes

Your personal income tax return must be filed on or before April 30 each year, unless April 30 falls on the weekend, in which case your return is due on the next business day. If you have a balance owing, the deadline to pay your taxes is also April 30.

If you file your return after the due date, your credit and benefit payments may be delayed. The Canada Revenue Agency may also charge interest and a late-filing penalty on returns filed after the due date, if you have a balance owing.

If you or your spouse or common-law partner are self-employed, your return is due on or before June 15. In 2024, as June 15 falls on a Saturday, your return is due on the next business day, June 17, 2024. However, if you have a balance owing, your payment is still due by April 30. 

File your taxes for free

If you need help filing your income tax return, you may be able to get your income taxes done free by volunteers at a Community Volunteer Tax Program. To find a clinic, please check the directory.

Register for direct deposit

Direct deposit is fast, convenient and secure.

Register for direct deposit today to ensure you get your payments on time in the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances.

I have questions

The Canada Revenue Agency administers B.C. tax benefits and credits.

Contact the Canada Revenue Agency with your questions about your tax credit and benefit claims and refunds.

Toll-free in Canada Phone:
1-800-959-8281