Question 1

Should I contribute to my FHSA, RRSP, or TFSA first?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your goal. Saving for a first home: prioritize the FHSA, since it combines a tax deduction going in with tax-free withdrawals for a qualifying home purchase. Employer RRSP match: contribute enough to capture the full match first — that's an immediate guaranteed return. Higher income: the RRSP deduction is worth more at higher marginal tax rates. Otherwise, the TFSA offers the most flexibility with tax-free withdrawals anytime.

Question 2

What is the GST/HST credit and who gets it?

Accepted Answer

The GST/HST credit is a tax-free quarterly payment from the CRA that helps individuals and families with low and modest incomes offset sales tax. It's calculated automatically from your filed tax return based on your adjusted family net income, marital status, and number of children — you must file a return every year to keep receiving it, even with no income.

Question 3

Who is eligible for the Canada Carbon Rebate?

Accepted Answer

Residents of provinces where the federal fuel charge applies can receive the Canada Carbon Rebate automatically after filing a tax return. The base amount varies by province and household size, and residents of small or rural communities can receive an additional rural top-up. Provinces with their own equivalent carbon pricing system may not receive the federal rebate.

Question 4

Do I need to file a Canadian tax return if I have no income?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes. Filing — even with zero income — is what unlocks income-tested benefits like the GST/HST credit, the Canada Carbon Rebate, and the Canada Child Benefit if you have children. The typical deadline is April 30. Many newcomers miss out on their first year of benefits simply by not filing.

Figure out your taxes & benefits in Canada.

Which account should I fund first?

Registered-account priority

What benefits might I qualify for?

Benefits eligibility estimator

Your first Canadian tax return

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