H&R Block survey finds 29% unsure what to claim and 28% plan to delay filing taxes
As the April 30 tax filing deadline nears, Canadians remain uncertain about recent tax changes, with many delaying their filings as a result.
A new survey from H&R Block Inc., reported by Financial Post, found that 29 percent of Canadians are confused about what to claim, and 28 percent plan to delay filing.
Another 15 percent of those who have already filed are concerned they may have submitted incorrect information.
Yannick Lemay, a tax expert at H&R Block Canada, stated in a press release that confusion stems from recent announcements by the federal government and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
These include changes to capital gains taxes, the cancellation of the Canada Carbon Rebate, and extended tax filing deadlines for certain qualifying Canadians due to delays on specific income-related forms.
Despite the cancellation of the proposed capital gains tax increase by Prime Minister Mark Carney in March 2025, confusion continues.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Carney cancelled the proposed hike as part of his campaign promises. The hike would have increased the inclusion rate for taxable capital gains from 50 percent to 66 percent for individuals earning over $250,000 annually.
He aimed to encourage investment and support entrepreneur-driven economic growth.
Lemay urged Canadians to file by the April 30 deadline to avoid potential penalties, even if no taxes are owed. He clarified that while the federal election on April 28 may influence future tax policy, it will not impact this year’s filing requirements.
Still, 22 percent of survey respondents believe the election might prompt a deadline extension.
Seven percent said they intend to wait for the election results before filing, while another seven percent expect to miss the deadline due to confusion about tax changes.
Additional findings from the survey show that 40 percent of respondents were unaware of any mid-season changes to income tax filing, and 37 percent lacked confidence in their ability to maximize their refund.
Furthermore, 36 percent were unaware or unsure of employment-related tax credits or deductions, and 20 percent felt they had missed out on them.
A separate study by Remolino and Associates Inc. and Angus Reid found that 65 percent of Canadians are concerned about the financial impact of tax policies.
About one-quarter plan to use their refund to pay off debt this year.
Francisco Remolino, principal of Remolino and Associates, said many Canadians are not only struggling with debt but also unsure where to seek help.
He noted that a lack of awareness about debt-relief options—combined with inflation and economic uncertainty—has made tax season particularly stressful.
That same study, which surveyed 1,504 Canadians in March, found that 39 percent believe the next federal government should lower income tax.
Meanwhile, 23 percent want more tax credits for families and individuals, and 18 percent support a reduction in the GST/HST.
