Frequently Asked Questions
Common Canadian tax questions we hear from clients in Surrey and across Canada. Don't see yours? Ask us directly.
When is the personal tax return (T1) deadline in Canada?
For most individuals the T1 filing deadline is April 30 of the year after the tax year, and any balance owing is also due April 30. When April 30 falls on a weekend or holiday, the CRA extends the deadline to the next business day.
I'm self-employed — when do I have to file?
Self-employed individuals (and their spouses) have until June 15 to file, but any balance owing is still due April 30. If you expect to owe, it usually makes sense to file by the end of April anyway.
When is my corporation's T2 return due?
A corporation's T2 return is due six months after its fiscal year-end. The tax balance is due earlier — generally two months after year-end, or three months for many Canadian-controlled private corporations claiming the small business deduction. We track both dates for our corporate clients and send reminders before anything is due.
Do I need to register for GST?
You must register for GST once your taxable sales exceed $30,000 over four consecutive calendar quarters. In BC there is no HST — you charge 5% GST, and depending on what you sell you may also need to register separately for 7% BC PST. We can register you and handle the ongoing filings.
What should I bring to a first appointment?
Bring photo ID and your SIN, last year's tax return and notice of assessment, this year's slips (T4, T5, T3, etc.), and receipts for RRSP contributions, donations, medical expenses and childcare. If you have business or rental income, bring a summary of income and expenses. Not sure about something? Bring it anyway.
Can you do my taxes if I don't live near Surrey?
Yes. We meet clients by phone or video call and exchange documents through our secure client portal, with data stored on Canadian servers. We serve clients across BC and the rest of Canada entirely remotely.
I haven't filed taxes in several years. Can you help?
Yes — multi-year catch-up filings are something we handle regularly. In many cases the CRA's Voluntary Disclosures Program can reduce penalties if you come forward before the CRA contacts you. The sooner you start, the more options you have.
What happens if I file my return late?
If you owe tax and file late, the CRA charges a late-filing penalty of 5% of the balance owing plus 1% for each full month you are late (up to 12 months), with higher penalties for repeat late-filers — plus daily interest. If you can't pay, it is still worth filing on time to avoid the penalty.
Is Amarjeet Modi & Co. Inc. a CPA firm?
Yes — the practice is led by Amarjeet Modi, CPA, a Chartered Professional Accountant and member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC). Your returns and financial statements are prepared under a professional designation with continuing education and conduct standards behind it.
Where is your office?
Our office is in Newton, Surrey at #271 - 8128 128 St, Surrey, BC V3W 1R1. We're open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturdays by appointment, with extended hours during tax season (January to April).
Still have questions?
We respond to every message within one business day.