Filing your taxes on time might not be top of mind, but missing the deadline can get costly fast. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) charges penalties and interest on late filings, which can add up quickly. If you’re running behind, here’s what to expect and what you can do about it.
Consequences of Filing Taxes Late
Late Filing Penalty
If you owe taxes and don’t file on time, the CRA charges a late-filing penalty of:
- 5% of your balance owing, plus
- 1% per month that your return is late, up to 12 months.
For example, if you owe $5,000 and file three months late, your penalty would be:
- $5,000 × 5% = $250
- $5,000 × (1% × 3 months) = $150
- Total penalty: $400
If you’ve filed late in the last three years, and have also received a demand to file letter, then penalties double to 10% of your balance owing, plus 2% per month (up to 20 months). Learn more from the CRA here.
Even if you file late, your tax bill doesn’t stay there. The CRA charges daily compounded interest on unpaid taxes from the day after the deadline. The interest rate is based on the prescribed rate, which is updated quarterly. If you don’t pay your balance promptly, the interest can grow significantly. Find more information on quarterly prescribed interest rates here.
Other Consequences of Filing Late
- Delayed Benefits: Tax refunds, GST/HST credits, or the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) may be delayed if your return isn’t filed.
- Collections: If taxes remain unpaid, the CRA can take action, including garnishing wages or freezing bank accounts.
- Repeat Offender Penalties: If you fail to report income more than once in four years, you could face an additional 10% penalty on the unreported amount.
What to Do If You Miss the Tax Deadline
File, Even If You Can’t Pay Right Away
The worst thing you can do is ignore the deadline. Even if you don’t have the money to pay your balance right away, filing on time helps you avoid the late-filing penalty and keeps the damage to a minimum.
Set Up a Payment Plan
If your tax bill can’t be paid at once, the CRA offers payment arrangements that let you pay over time.
Request Taxpayer Relief
If exceptional circumstances like serious illness, a natural disaster, or financial hardship kept you from filing, you may qualify for taxpayer relief to reduce penalties and interest.
Use the Voluntary Disclosures Program (VDP)
If you’ve missed filings or made mistakes in previous years, the Voluntary Disclosures Program (VDP) lets you correct past errors before the CRA comes calling, potentially lowering penalties.
Accounting & Advisory Support for Business Owners
Filing late can get expensive, and taking action quickly can help you avoid bigger headaches. At KWB, we can help you navigate tax deadlines, minimize penalties, and find the best payment solutions. Book an introductory meeting with us today!
