Deadlines for Filing Your Tax Returns

The general deadline for filing personal income tax returns and paying any taxes owing is April 30th.

However, if you are in business for yourself, the filing deadline for you (and your spouse) is extended to June 16th (since June 15th falls on a Sunday in 2008). Just remember, any taxes you owe are still due by April 30th, so make sure you pay your taxes by that date to avoid arrears interest charges. If you owe taxes and your return is late, you will be assessed a penalty and interest on the unpaid balance of tax due.

If you find the deadline is fast approaching and you still haven't received receipts for some items, file your return anyway with a cheque for the estimated tax owing and an explanation. An adjustment may be made later.

Information for Tax Tips is provided as a public service by the Chartered Accountants of British Columbia.