Should the CRA File Your Taxes Automatically?

Official title: Consultation on Automatic tax filing

Closed Policy & Studies Economy & Jobs Finance & Consumer
The CRA wants to make tax filing automatic for low-income Canadians. Right now, many miss out on benefits simply because they don't file a return. Services like SimpleFile could do it for them—but the CRA wants input on how to expand this.

Why This Matters

Ever skipped filing your taxes because it felt too complicated? You might have left money on the table. Many low-income Canadians miss out on benefits like the GST credit or Canada Child Benefit because they don't file. Automatic filing could change that.

What Could Change

The CRA could expand SimpleFile to automatically file returns for more Canadians. This means eligible people would receive benefits without lifting a finger. The program might also be improved based on feedback from tax professionals and community groups.

Key Issues

  • How can automatic tax filing services like SimpleFile be expanded?
  • What barriers prevent low-income Canadians from filing tax returns?
  • How can automatic filing be improved to reach more vulnerable Canadians?

How to Participate

  1. The online questionnaire was open from September 9 to October 9, 2025. The CRA is also engaging community organizations and tax industry representatives through roundtable discussions.

What Happened

The online questionnaire phase has concluded. The CRA thanked participants and indicated a summary of the consultation will be made available once complete. Roundtable discussions with community organizations and tax industry representatives are ongoing.