SASKATCHEWAN — The countdown to tax season’s most critical moment is underway, and across Saskatchewan, the pressure is building.
With the April 30 deadline approaching, experts say filing patterns, financial stress and even awareness of available benefits are all shifting in ways that reflect a broader economic reality facing Canadians.
“April is where we see the biggest drive for filing for sure, as we approach the deadline for filing personal income taxes, which is April 30th,” explained Yannick Lemay, tax expert at H&R Block Canada. “However, we always encourage that it’s better to file as early as possible – which everyone should be able to do now as they would have received all of their tax forms from their employers or their investments.”
That urgency is not just about deadlines. It is about peace of mind.
“Some people put off filing until the last minute over a fear of owing taxes, but the reality is, the majority of Canadians either don’t owe taxes or get a refund, and the longer you put it off, the more it can weigh on you,” Lemay noted. “It’s best to file early so you can make a plan of how to manage any taxes owed, or even better, get your tax refund back in your pocket sooner.”
A system many still struggle to navigate
Even as more Canadians file digitally and earlier than ever before, confusion remains one of the defining themes of tax season.
“The first most common challenge is that everyone’s tax situation is unique, so it’s not the type of thing where you can compare notes with your friends or family, as each return is unique to you,” Lemay said.
That individuality is compounded by the complexity of the system itself.
“The second most common concern is that Canadians aren’t sure of all the credits and benefits they’re entitled to, so they’re worried about missing something that could have a big impact on their return,” he added. “There are over 400 tax credits and benefits, and they are constantly evolving and changing every year.”
That evolving system is particularly evident in 2025 filings, where both federal and provincial changes are quietly reshaping returns.
New credits, new opportunities
At the federal level, a reduction in the lowest tax bracket is expected to put slightly more money back into Canadians’ pockets.
“Income tax brackets changes. The lowest tax rate was reduced from 15 per cent to 14 per cent as of July 1st, 2025, and so the CRA will apply a 14.5 per cent tax rate for all of 2025 – meaning many Canadians will see a slight bump in their tax refund this year,” Lemay explained.
Affordability measures are also playing a larger role.
“The federal government also announced the introduction of the Canada Groceries & Essential Benefit,” he said, noting it is designed to ease pressure on everyday costs. “There is a one-time top-up payment they expect to happen in the spring, equal to a 50 per cent of the 2025-2026 GST credit which goes to eligible lower-income Canadians.”
At the same time, Saskatchewan has introduced or expanded several targeted credits aimed at easing household costs and encouraging investment.
“Home Renovation Tax Credit: This credit has been re-introduced in 2025. Homeowners who undergo renovations to their principal residence after October 1, 2024 can save up to $420,” Lemay outlined, adding seniors can save even more.
Other changes include increased support for first-time homebuyers, expanded family activity credits and a higher basic personal amount, all of which could influence returns across the province.
Financial pressure driving behaviour
Behind the numbers lies a deeper trend shaping this year’s tax season: financial strain.
“We’re seeing that many Canadians are worried about their ability to save in light of increased cost of living,” Lemay said. “A survey from H&R Block Canada revealed that 74 per cent of Canadians worry they're not putting enough money into savings and 85 per cent feel living paycheque to paycheque is the new norm.”
Despite those concerns, refunds remain a critical financial boost for many households.
“Two-thirds (66.5 per cent) of H&R Block clients got a refund last year, with the average refund in tax season 2025 being $2,101,” he added.
Still, a lack of awareness continues to leave money unclaimed.
“More than one in three (37 per cent) said they don’t feel like they have a good understanding of the tax credits and benefits they may be eligible for.”
Missed money and second chances
For many taxpayers, the biggest surprise may not be what they owe, but what they missed.
“A lot of Canadians miss out on tax credits just because the system can feel complicated,” Lemay said. “There are over 400 credits and deductions out there and it’s easy to overlook the ones that apply to your specific situation.”
But there is a safety net built into the system.
“One of the biggest things people don’t realize is that if you missed a credit in the past, you’re not out of luck. You can actually go back and adjust your tax return for up to 10 years in most cases.”
That opportunity can be significant.
“When our tax experts reviewed client returns filed elsewhere, they helped 64 per cent of those clients get an additional $2,725 in money others missed on average.”
The final push before the deadline
As the deadline approaches, the message from experts is clear: act now.
“Tax rules and credits change every year, and your personal situation can impact what applies to you,” Lemay said. “To ensure that you’re getting the most out of your tax return, working with a tax expert can help identify those credits and deductions you’re eligible for and ensure you’re not leaving any money on the table.”
And timing matters.
“It’s also important to file on time (or early) to avoid any costly penalties,” he emphasized. “The deadline to file your personal income taxes is April 30, but it’s best practice to file as early as possible to avoid surprises and missed deadlines.”
