2024 Tax Deadline: When Is the Last Day to File Your Taxes?

Mark Virgil Lofranco • 9 December 2024

As a taxpayer, one of the most critical aspects to stay on top of is the deadline for filing your taxes. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) enforces strict due dates for both returns and payments. Filing on time not only helps you avoid interest and penalties but also ensures you get your refund faster. We’ve compiled all the key tax dates you need to know for a stress-free tax season.


When Can I File My Taxes in 2024?


Tax Filing Deadline for Individual Tax Returns


For the 2023 tax year, the tax filing deadline is April 30, 2024. Typically, the CRA expects individual taxpayers to submit their returns by April 30. If that day falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline extends to the next business day.

You can start filing your taxes online as early as February 19, 2024, when the CRA opens its NETFILE service. For paper returns, they must be postmarked by the deadline, and electronically submitted returns must be filed by midnight local time.


Tax Filing Deadline for Self-Employed Returns


If you’re self-employed, you have until June 17, 2024, to file your return. However, any taxes owed are still due by April 30, 2024.


Important CRA Dates and Deadlines in 2024


Here’s a quick reference for all the important tax-related dates for 2024:


  • February 19, 2024: NETFILE opens for electronic filing.
  • April 30, 2024: Deadline to file individual tax returns and pay any taxes owed.
  • June 17, 2024: Deadline to file self-employed tax returns.
  • March 15, June 15, September 15, December 15: Due dates for installment payments.


Business Tax Deadline for 2024


If you are a sole proprietor or part of a partnership, your business tax return is due by June 17, 2024, assuming your fiscal year matches the calendar year. Incorporated businesses that operate on a non-calendar fiscal year must file six months after their fiscal year ends.


Tax Filing Deadlines for Final Tax Returns


If you’re the legal representative of a deceased person, you must ensure their final tax return is submitted. If the person passed between January 1 and October 31, the return is due by April 30. For those who passed between November 1 and December 31, the return is due six months from the date of death.


If the deceased or their spouse was self-employed, the return is due by June 17, but interest starts accumulating from April 30.


Penalties for Late Tax Filing


What Happens if You File Personal Taxes Late?


If you file late and don’t owe taxes, you won’t face penalties. However, if you owe taxes and file late, you’ll face a penalty of 5% of your balance owed, plus an additional 1% for each month you are late, up to 12 months. The CRA will charge compound daily interest on any overdue amounts starting May 1.


What if I’m Self-Employed and File Late?


Self-employed taxpayers who file late face additional complications, such as penalties for payroll and GST/HST remittances. Missing payroll deduction deadlines can result in penalties starting at 10%, increasing to 20% for repeat offenses. Late filings for GST/HST are also subject to penalties and interest.


Due Dates for Installment Payments


If you make installment payments to avoid a large tax bill, those are due on March 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15.

By marking these dates on your calendar and staying organized, you can ensure a smooth tax season.


Key Takeaways

  • The 2024 tax filing deadline is April 30, 2024, for individuals, and June 17, 2024, for the self-employed.
  • NETFILE opens on February 19, 2024.
  • Failing to file by the deadline may result in interest charges, fees, or penalties if you owe taxes.

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