NETFILE: How to File Your Canadian Tax Return Online

NETFILE isn't a website you fill in. It's the channel your tax software uses to send your return straight to the CRA. Pick certified software, enter your details, and the software transmits the return through NETFILE. Here's how it works, the dates, and the points the CRA itself flags about choosing software.

NETFILE at a glance

Question	Answer
What is it?	The CRA's electronic filing service for personal tax returns
How do you use it?	Through CRA-certified tax software
When is it open?	February 23, 2026 at 6:00 a.m. Eastern to January 29, 2027
Which years can you file?	Initial returns for 2018 to 2025
Can you fix a filed return?	Yes, with ReFILE for amended T1 returns
Does it cost anything?	NETFILE itself doesn't; software may be free or paid

How to file with NETFILE

1. Choose tax software from the CRA's list of certified products for the tax year.
2. Make sure you have the latest version, since software is certified each year.
3. Enter your slips, income and deductions, or import what you can.
4. Review the return the software calculates.
5. Send it through NETFILE from inside the software and keep the confirmation.

Free vs paid software

The CRA says that if you have a modest income, most certified software will prepare a basic return for free; otherwise there's usually a service fee. The CRA's list shows each provider's options, such as online, download or mobile app, and whether free offerings depend on your tax situation. Self-employed returns, rental income and investments are where paid versions usually come in.

What the CRA won't do for you

This is the catch most people skip. The CRA says it doesn't look at software developers' privacy policies, so it's up to you to check them before you hand over your financial details. It also says it can't be held responsible if omissions or programming errors in the software affect what you owe. Certification means the software can file through NETFILE, not that the CRA vouches for everything it does.

Filing old returns

Missed a year? NETFILE accepts initial returns going back to 2018 in the current season. That's useful if you've got unfiled returns, especially if you're owed a refund, since a refund can't be paid until the return is filed. You'll need software certified for each year you're filing, so check that the product you choose covers older years.

Fixing a mistake: ReFILE

If you spot an error after filing, ReFILE lets you send an amended T1 return electronically through the same software, for a range of recent years. It saves posting a paper request.

Deadlines still apply

NETFILE being open until January doesn't move the tax deadline. Most people must file by April 30; the self-employed and their spouses or common-law partners have until June 15, but any balance is still due April 30. Filing online simply means you can send it right up to the deadline.

Who usually can't use NETFILE

Some returns can't go through NETFILE and need another route, such as paper or a tax preparer filing on your behalf. The CRA publishes the full eligibility list each season. Check that list before you start if your situation is unusual, for example if you've moved to or from Canada during the year.

What you need before you start

• Your social insurance number and personal details.
• All your income slips, such as T4, T4A and investment slips.
• Records of self-employment income and expenses, if you have them.
• Receipts for deductions and credits you plan to claim.
• Your bank details, if you want a refund paid by direct deposit.

Having everything in one place before you open the software is the single biggest time saver of the whole process. Most software lets you save and come back, but switching between paperwork and screens is where mistakes creep in.

NETFILE for the self-employed

Self-employed returns can go through NETFILE too, as long as the software you choose supports the business income form, the T2125. Not every free version does, so check before you start entering figures. Remember the split deadline: you can file by June 15, but the tax is due on April 30, and interest runs from the day after.

Tips for a smooth NETFILE

• Gather all your slips first, including T4A slips from clients if you freelance.
• Use software certified for the exact tax year you're filing.
• Read the software's privacy policy, as the CRA recommends.
• Keep the NETFILE confirmation number with your records.
• Double-check the figures yourself. The CRA won't take responsibility for software errors.

My verdict

NETFILE is the simplest way for most Canadians to file their return each spring: free software for basic returns, instant transmission and the ability to file old years. Just pick software carefully, read its privacy terms and check the numbers before you press send, because once it's filed, fixing it means a ReFILE. If you earn online in Canada, my guides to Amazon KDP in Canada and Snapchat earnings in Canada cover the income side.

Frequently asked questions

What is NETFILE?

The CRA's electronic filing service that lets you send your personal tax return through CRA-certified tax software.

When is NETFILE open?

For the current season, from February 23, 2026 at 6:00 a.m. Eastern time until January 29, 2027.

Can I NETFILE an old tax return?

Yes. You can file initial returns for 2018 to 2025 through NETFILE in the current season.

Is NETFILE software free?

Most certified software prepares a basic return free if you have a modest income; otherwise there's usually a fee.

Does the CRA check tax software for errors?

The CRA says it can't be held responsible for omissions or programming errors in software.