Whether we like it or not, tax season is right around the corner. You might owe the government a chunk of money, or if you’re lucky, you could get a refund. Let’s hope it’s the latter. 

The good news? Filing your taxes has never been easier, thanks to the improvements in tax software in Canada. But with so many options available, how do you know which is best?

Worry not–we’re here to help you file taxes as stress-free as possible. In this guide, we’ll compare the best tax software in Canada, including Wealthsimple Tax, TurboTax Canada, and UFile Canada. We’ll discuss their features, fees, pros and cons, and how they work. 

What to Look for When Choosing a Tax Return Software

Choosing the right tax return software for you will vary based on the complexity of your return and the features you need. Here are some key aspects to consider when shopping around:

• CRA NETFILE Certified: Look for CRA NETFILE-certified online tax software so you can submit your returns directly to the CRA. Otherwise, you’ll need to manually print and mail your return. 

• Support for Complex Returns: You’ll need support if you have a more complex tax situation, such as being self-employed or having investment income. 

• Cost: Look at the pricing tiers for each platform and determine which is best for you. If you have an easy tax return, you might be able to file it for free. If it’s more complex, you’ll need to pay for one of the premium versions with more support. 

• Audit Support: You might want to opt into audit protection in the off chance you’re selected for an audit by the CRA. 

• Customer Support: Most platforms offer chat, email, and phone support. Look for the one that fits your needs best. 

Top 3 Best Online Tax Filing Software in Canada

Although there are many platforms for filing your taxes in Canada, these three are at the top of our list due to their features, interface, and pricing models.

Wealthsimple Tax

Wealthsimple Tax (formerly SimpleTax) is a streamlined, easy-to-use online tax filing platform that calls itself “really great tax software at a really great price.” At that, we agree. What’s great about Wealthsimple Tax is you can file your return for $0. Yes, you heard that right–the Basic plan is a pay-what-you-want model. 

You can complete your return online and submit it directly via NETFILE Canada. Wealthsimple Tax is equipped for complex situations like self-employment, crypto transactions, and investment income. 

Pricing/Plans:

• Basic ($0+): Optimizes credits and deductions and guarantees your maximum refund

• Plus ($40 + tax): All basic benefits plus audit protection and priority support

• Pro ($80 + tax): All plus benefits plus customized advice with a tax expert 

Pros:

• 100% free to use (donation-based model)

• Maximum refunds are guaranteed 

• Supports all tax situations, including self-employment and investments

• Automatically applies relevant deductions and credits 

Cons:

• Pro plan is not available for Quebec residents 

• No phone support 

• Not ideal for complex tax situations 

Who’s it best for? Those looking for the best free tax program in Canada who don’t need live expert assistance. 

TurboTax Canada

One of the most well-known tax software in Canada, TurboTax offers a few different tiers, from free to premium plans. It provides step-by-step guidance, and you can opt for expert support if needed. 

There is no upfront cost; you only pay upon submitting your tax return. Other tax software may only offer a free version up to a certain income amount, but TurboTax has no income limit. It also has a 100% accurate calculations guarantee, a maximum refund guarantee, and a 60-day money-back guarantee. 

Pricing/Plans:

• TurboTax Online ($0-60): Automatically imports data from the CRA and searches 400+ credits and deductions to maximize your return

• Assist & Review ($50-110): Get unlimited access to a tax expert and get a final review by a tax expert to ensure 100% accuracy

• Full Service ($70-250): A tax expert prepares, reviews, and files your taxes, and you get Audit Defence support for up to 3 years

Pros:

• Multiple plans, including a free option

• Guidance for all tax situations

• Live expert help is available (for an additional fee)

• Five accuracy and satisfaction guarantees 

• Only pay when you file 

Cons:

• Premium plans can be expensive 

• Customer support isn’t always free 

• The pricing structure isn’t always super transparent

Who’s it best for? Those who want a guided experience with the option to get expert help.

UFile

UFile Canada offers a balance of affordability and functionality. It can handle simple and complex tax returns, with features similar to Wealthsimple Tax and TurboTax. UFile offers a Triple Guarantee for accuracy, satisfaction, and the best results. 

UFile is free for those with simple tax returns, income under $20,000, newcomers, and students. 

Pricing/Plans:

• UFile Online ($20.95+): Auto-fill your return, triple guarantee, and free support. 

• UFile Premium ($32.95+): All Online features, plus free priority email, phone, and chat support. 

Pros:

• Affordable pricing for newcomers or those with a low income 

• Supports more complex tax situations

• Free online support

Cons:

• The interface is less intuitive than other tax software 

• Limitations with the free version

• No audit protection 

Who’s it best for? Those who need budget-friendly tax software with support for more complex returns.

How Much Does it Cost to File Taxes Online?

All tax return software varies in price, but you can generally expect to pay very little ($0+) if you have a limited income or a less complicated tax situation. On the flip side, if you earn a lot more, are self-employed, or have a more complex tax situation, you can expect to pay for the premium version of the software ($20+). 

Here’s a general breakdown of the three:

• Wealthsimple Tax: Free (donation-based)

• TurboTax Canada: Free for basic returns; premium plans range from $20-$100+

• UFile Canada: Free for students and low-income filers; standard plans start at $20

Remember that some platforms also charge extra if you need expert help, want audit protection, or are self-employed (we’re looking at you, TurboTax). 

Should You File Your Taxes Online or Use a Specialist?

If your taxes aren’t that complicated, you can file them yourself using an online tax return software. On the other hand, if your situation is more complex, consider consulting a tax professional. Some factors that can make filing your taxes online a little more difficult can be if:

• You’re self-employed

• You own a business

• You have complex investment income 

• You’ve made charitable contributions

• You’ve had major life changes (e.g., marriage, children, moving) 

Then, it might be time to hire a tax specialist. Keep in mind that they often charge higher fees ($100-300+ per return), and you’ll have less control over the filing process. 

Can You File Your Taxes with a Credit Card?

Yes and no. You can use a credit card to pay for tax filing software, which is a great way to earn points or cashback on an unavoidable expense. However, when it comes to paying the taxes you owe to the CRA, you won’t be able to pay them directly with a credit card.

That said, maximizing your credit card rewards doesn’t have to stop at tax season. At Chexy, we help you earn points, cashback, and even airline miles on everyday expenses like rent and bills—without adding unnecessary debt. 

While you can’t use Chexy to pay the CRA or tax software directly, you can use it to turn your biggest recurring expenses into valuable rewards, all while building your credit.