When filing your taxes for free, you have a few options. You can get out your pen, paper and calculator and file a paper return, or you can use Canada Revenue Agency-approved tax preparation software and file your return electronically. But, even if you’re accustomed the paper method, you can use tax preparation software — designed for novice and experienced computer users alike — to prepare your return. Unlike TurboTax Free, some free versions of tax preparation software only address limited tax situations. Research such software to ensure that the free version offers the forms, deductions and other calculations needed to complete your return before you use it.
Time Frame
Paper returns can be time consuming to complete, and it takes a significant amount of time to receive your tax refund. According to the CRA, the processing time for a paper return is between four and six weeks.
“Software can be a lot faster (than paper) … you receive fast direct deposit of your refund,” says Dunn. According to the CRA, the average processing time for an electronic return is two weeks, but with direct deposit, your refund may arrive in as little as eight days.
Accuracy
Although tax software may provide helpful assistance, you are still self-preparing your taxes. It’s possible to miss things or enter information incorrectly. With a paper return, you have the “T1 General Income Tax and Benefit Package” to guide you through the process, but again, you are self-preparing your return. With both methods, paper or free tax software, you can only receive the benefits, credits and deductions that you elect to take and at the end of the day, your returns’ accuracy is your responsibility.
References & Resources
- Canada Revenue Agency: Telephone Numbers
- Canada Revenue Agency: Sending a Tax Return
- Canada Revenue Agency: Frequently Asked Questions About NETFILE – General
- Canada Revenue Agency: When Can I Expect My Refund?
- Canada Revenue Agency: What Documents Will I Need To Claim My Charitable Tax Credits?
- Canada Revenue Agency: Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP)
- Donald Dunn, Accountant; Embrun, Ontario