2025 Income Tax Tips for Seniors
Updated for the 2026 tax year.
This tax season, be sure to maximize your benefits and credits! Most seniors must file their 2025 income tax return by April 30, 2026.
If you or your spouse are self-employed, you have until June 15, 2026 to file. But if you owe money, you must pay it by April 30, 2026 to avoid interest.
Even if you had little or no income in 2025, you must still file. Filing helps to ensure you keep receiving important benefits and payments from the provincial and federal governments, such as:
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Old Age Security (OAS)
- Canada Dental Care Plan
- Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER)
- Other federal and provincial supports
Frequently Asked Questions About Income Tax Filing
When is the deadline to file my 2025 tax return?
Most seniors must file by April 30, 2026.
If you are self-employed, you have until June 15, 2026 to file. However, any taxes owed are still due by April 30, 2026.
Do I need to file if I had no income?
Yes.
Even if you had no income, filing ensures your eligibility for federal and provincial programs. Not filing can result in delayed or stopped payments.
How can I file my tax return?
You can:
- File online using certified tax software
- Mail a paper return
- Ask a trusted family member, friend, or accountant for help
- Visit a free community tax clinic
Are there free tax clinics available?
Yes.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) works with community organizations to offer free tax clinics. These clinics help people with lower incomes and simple tax returns.
What tax credits are available for seniors?
You may qualify for several federal and provincial tax credits. Whether you qualify depends on your age, income, and personal situation.
Common credits include:
- Age Amount Tax Credit
- Pension Income Amount Credit
- Medical Expense Tax Credit
- Disability Tax Credit
- Canada Caregiver Credit
- B.C. Renter’s Tax Credit
- B.C. Home Renovation Tax Credit for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities
Visit the Canada Revenue Agency page on tax credits and benefits for individuals.
How do I protect myself from tax scams?
Tax season is a common time for fraud.
The Canada Revenue Agency will never:
- Threaten arrest
- Demand payment by gift card or cryptocurrency
- Ask for personal or banking information by text or email
If you are unsure whether a call or message is real, contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) directly at 1-800-959-8281.
Learn more about common CRA scams and how to recognize them.
Useful Links
- What you need to know for the 2026-tax filing season (Canada Revenue Agency)
- Seniors Income Tax Fact Sheet PDF (Canada Revenue Agency)
- Webinar Recording: Webinar for adults 65+: Get your benefits and credits (Canada Revenue Agency)
- Taxes when you retire or turn 65 years old (Canada Revenue Agency)
Contact the Canada Revenue Agency Directly
If you have more questions about your personal taxes, you can call the CRA Individual Income Tax Enquiries services at: 1-800-959-8281.