Knowing how to file taxes for free can put real money back in your pocket. Many of the benefits that help families with low incomes are based on your tax return, so skipping it can mean missing payments you are entitled to.
At Friendship House in Brantford, we see how much a small monthly payment matters when money is tight. We do not prepare taxes, but this guide explains the free help that exists in Canada and how to get ready for it.
Quick answer
How can I file my taxes for free?
If you have a modest income and a simple tax situation, a free tax clinic can do your return for you. These clinics are run by community organizations through the Canada Revenue Agency’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, and you can find one with the CRA’s “Find a free tax clinic” tool. File every year, even if you had no income, because benefits like the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit depend on it.
Why filing your taxes matters, even with no income
Many people think there is no point filing a return if they did not earn much. In fact, filing is how the government works out many of the benefits you can receive.
The Canada Revenue Agency says the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, which replaced the GST/HST credit, is a tax-free quarterly payment for individuals and families with low and modest incomes. To receive it, you have to file a tax return for 2025, even if you had no income in the year.
- One return can open the door to several benefits, so file every year.
- If you had a spouse or common-law partner on December 31, 2025, include their information on your return, even if their income was zero.
- Only one of you receives the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit for both, and the amount is the same either way.
Families: do not miss the Canada Child Benefit
If you have children, filing matters even more. The Canada Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment for eligible families with children under 18, and the CRA uses your tax return to work out how much you receive.
Both parents in a couple need to file each year, even if one had no income. Our guide on how to support a single parent (opens in a new tab) explains how to apply for the Canada Child Benefit.
What a free tax clinic is
Through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (opens in a new tab), community organizations host free tax clinics. Trained volunteers complete tax returns for people with a modest income and a simple tax situation.
There is no charge. Clinics are hosted in many places, such as community centres, libraries and charities, and the CRA’s search tool lets you look for one by location and by the type of clinic you prefer.
Who can use a free tax clinic
Free tax clinics are meant for people with a modest income and simple taxes. Each clinic follows the CRA’s guidelines, and income limits and rules can vary, so check with the clinic before you go.
| Your situation | Free clinic? |
|---|---|
| Income from a job, pension or government benefits | Often a good fit |
| No income at all this year | Often a good fit |
| Self-employed or running a business | Usually not |
| Rental income | Usually not |
| Unsure | Ask the clinic |
How to find a clinic
Use the CRA’s “Find a free tax clinic” tool on Canada.ca to see clinics near you. You can filter by location and by how the clinic works, such as in person or virtual.
- Search for clinics near Brantford with the CRA tool.
- Check the clinic’s dates, hours and how to book.
- Call or book ahead, because spots can fill up.
- Ask what documents to bring.
If you need help finding one, 211 Ontario (opens in a new tab) can connect you with community services near you.
What to bring
Each clinic will tell you exactly what it needs. Having your papers together before your appointment makes things faster and helps the volunteer get everything right.
- Photo ID and your social insurance number
- Tax slips from your job, pension, Employment Insurance or other benefits
- Receipts for things like rent, medical costs or child care, if you have them
- Your notice of assessment from last year, if you have it
- Banking information if you want direct deposit
- Your spouse or partner’s information, if you have one
Keep a folder or large envelope at home for tax papers. When a slip arrives in the mail, put it straight in the folder so nothing gets lost.
Tips for filing on time
Filing on time keeps your benefits flowing without gaps. If you are behind on past years, you can still file them, and a clinic can tell you whether it can help with older returns.
- Sign up for direct deposit so payments arrive faster.
- Keep your address up to date with the CRA, so letters reach you.
- Watch out for scams: the CRA will not threaten you or ask for payment in gift cards.
- Keep a copy of every return and notice you receive.
Give your time as a tax volunteer
Free tax clinics run on volunteers. If you are comfortable with numbers, helping neighbours file their returns is a practical way to give back.
If you would rather help with food and clothing, see how to volunteer in Brantford with Friendship House (opens in a new tab). Our guide to the benefits of volunteering (opens in a new tab) explains why giving time is good for you too.
Help while you wait for benefits
Benefits take time to arrive, and filing does not fix an empty fridge today. Friendship House at 452 Grey Street serves coffee, tea and a light breakfast from 8 a.m., a hot meal Monday to Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m., and runs the Food Bank on Wednesdays (opens in a new tab).
Everything is free and open to everyone. For more money tips, see how to budget on a low income (opens in a new tab) and how to deal with financial stress (opens in a new tab).
Frequently asked questions
Can I get my taxes done for free in Canada?
Yes. If you have a modest income and a simple tax situation, a free tax clinic run through the CRA’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program can do your return at no cost.
Do I need to file taxes if I had no income?
Yes, if you want benefits. The CRA says you have to file a 2025 return to receive the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, even if you had no income.
How do I find a free tax clinic near Brantford?
Use the CRA’s “Find a free tax clinic” tool on Canada.ca and search by location. You can also call 2-1-1 for help finding community services.
What should I bring to a free tax clinic?
Bring photo ID, your social insurance number, tax slips, any receipts you have and last year’s notice of assessment. Ask the clinic for its own list.
Who is not eligible for a free tax clinic?
Clinics are for modest incomes and simple returns. People who are self-employed or have business or rental income usually need other help.
A free return today can mean steadier money all year. Find a clinic, gather your papers, and visit our free services at Friendship House (opens in a new tab) whenever you need a meal along the way.
