Benefits of filing a tax return

You may want to file a tax return if any of the following applies to you:

• You want to claim a refund.
• You want to apply for the GST/HST credit.
• You or your spouse or common-law partner wants to begin or continue receiving Canada Child Tax Benefit payments.
• You have incurred a non-capital loss (see line 236) in 2005 that you want to be able to apply in other years.
• You want to carry forward the unused portion of your tuition and education amounts (see line 323).
• You want to report income for which you could contribute to an RRSP, in order to keep your RRSP deduction limit.
• You receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement or Allowance benefits under the Old Age Security Program. You can usually renew your benefit simply by filing your return by April 30. If you choose not to file a return, you will have to complete a renewal application form. This form is available from the Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) website.

When will we pay interest?

We will pay you compound daily interest on your tax refund for 2005. The calculation will start on whichever of the following dates is latest:

• May 31, 2006;
• the 31st day after you file your tax return; or
• the day after you overpaid your taxes.

Important dates

Generally, your tax return for 2005 has to be filed on or before April 30, 2006.

Note
If you file your tax return after April 30, 2006, your GST/HST credit, Canada Child Tax Benefit (including those from certain related provincial or territorial programs), and Old Age Security benefit payments may be delayed.

Frequently asked questions

• I started working this year and made about $2,000 in income. Do I need to file a tax return?
• I turn 19 in August. When do I get the GST/HST credit?

Forms and publications

• General Income Tax and Benefit Guide
• General Income Tax and Benefit package for 2005

Related topics

• International and non-resident