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Every year, thousands of Canadians pay more tax than they should. Often, this is not due to a lack of income, but a lack of planning.
Fortunately, there are several legal strategies to pay less tax in Canada. Some are simple. Others require a bit more organization but can make a real difference.
In this article, you will discover how to reduce your tax bill in 2026 through registered accounts, tax credits, and better financial planning. All with advice applicable across Canada.
Registered accounts are often the starting point for reducing taxes. They allow you to either defer tax or avoid it completely.
The Registered Retirement Savings Plan allows you to deduct your contributions from your taxable income. As a result, you pay less tax today.
The higher your tax rate, the greater the tax advantage. The RRSP is therefore particularly attractive for middle- or high-income earners.
Unused RRSP contribution room can be carried forward. You are not obliged to contribute immediately.
Unlike the RRSP, contributions to the TFSA are not deductible. However, income and withdrawals are never taxed.
The TFSA is ideal for medium- or long-term goals. It also allows you to withdraw money without tax implications.
The FHSA combines benefits of both the RRSP and the TFSA. Contributions are deductible, and eligible withdrawals are not taxed. It is designed for first-time home buyers and can significantly reduce taxes payable.
Beyond registered accounts, several credits and deductions allow you to pay less tax in Canada.
Donations made to registered charities qualify for a non-refundable tax credit. The higher the total amount of donations, the higher the credit rate. It can be advantageous to group donations in the same year.
Eligible child care expenses can be deducted from income. Generally, the parent with the lower income should claim them. This deduction can represent significant tax savings for families.
In Quebec, child care expenses also qualify for a separate credit, administered by Revenu Quebec. The rules differ from the federal system.
Certain unreimbursed medical expenses may be eligible for a tax credit. It is possible to group expenses over a twelve-month period. This sometimes allows you to exceed the minimum threshold required.
In recent years, working from home has become common. Certain expenses may be deductible.
If you work from home, you may be able to deduct a portion of your housing expenses. This includes rent, electricity, or internet. Rules vary depending on your status. An employee generally needs to obtain a form from their employer.
Note: Expenses must be reasonable and proportionate to the space used.
Reducing your taxes isn’t just about choosing the right products. Timing and strategy also matter.
In certain situations, it is possible to split income between spouses. This can reduce the household’s overall tax rate. This strategy is mainly used in retirement or with certain pension incomes.
Depending on your situation, it may be advantageous to defer income or accelerate a deduction. This depends on your current and future tax rate. Good planning allows you to optimize these decisions.
Each tax profile is different. Some strategies are more effective depending on your situation.
Families often benefit from several credits and deductions. Child care expenses, child credits, and income splitting can reduce taxes. Good coordination between spouses is essential.
Self-employed individuals have access to several deductions. Business expenses directly reduce taxable income. Meticulous tracking of expenses is crucial to ensure nothing is overlooked.
In retirement, the challenge is often to manage withdrawals in a tax-efficient manner. The choice between RRSP, RRIF, and TFSA becomes strategic. Poor planning can lead to an unnecessary tax bill.
Even with good knowledge, tools can simplify the task.
Good software automatically identifies certain credits. It also reduces the risk of errors. Consult our guide on the best tax software in Canada.
In complex situations, a professional can save you more than their fees. This is often the case for self-employed individuals or retirees.
Paying less tax in Canada is possible, provided you know the rules well and act at the right time. Registered accounts, tax credits, and planning are your best allies.
By taking the time to optimize your tax situation, you keep more money for your projects. An annual review can make all the difference.
Registered accounts, tax credits, and sound tax planning are the most effective tools.
It is most advantageous when your current tax rate is high.
No, but it allows for tax-free growth and withdrawals.
Yes. Certain credits and rules are specific to the Quebec system.
Not always, but they can be very helpful in complex situations.
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