1. What is the income tax return?

In Canada, every resident is liable to report his/her income to the governments. If you have income, you may need to pay tax to the governments.


2. If I have no income, do I still need to file tax return?

Technically, if you have no income, you do not have to file tax return. The problem is: governments will give low income residents some tax credits such as Ontario Sales Tax Credit, GST and Child Tax Benefit. If you have no income or low income, when you file tax return, you will get some refund. If you do not file your tax return, you will not get the credit.


3. I am an international student. Do I need to file tax return?

There are two benefits for international student: 1) To get tax benefit. you may get up to $800 per year; 2) To claim your tuition and education amount. This amount can be accumulated to future years. If you have income in the future, for example, if you immigrate to Canada and make money, then the accumulated tuition and education amount will help you to get more refund.


4. What do I need to bring when filing tax return?

— T4, T4A, T4E, T5, T3, T5007, RRSP, and any information slip to show your income.
— You can claim the rental expense related information including address of living, number of months lived, rent paid and name of landlord
— If you are a college of university student, T2202A.
— If you are an international student, bring the passport and study permit, and T2202A


5. As a new comer, can I get any additional refund?

Yes. The revenue Canada gives eligible new comers GST credit since the date entry to Canada. For example, the immigrants or international students, may get the credit, as long as filing a special form.

If you still have questions, please visit Hope Canada Tax’s website: www.hopecanadatax.ca

( Provided by Harry Chen, CMA, Hope Canada Tax )