Free tax clinics in Canada: who qualifies and what they cover
Quick summary
Free tax clinics (the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program) prepare simple returns for people with modest income. The suggested limit is $40,000 of family income for one person. If you owe a balance, seecan't pay your taxes.
Checked November 3, 2026. Main source: CRA: Get your taxes done at a free tax clinic (modified Oct. 26, 2026). See all 1 source.
Suggested income limits
| People in your family | Total family income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $40,000 |
| 2 | $55,000 |
| 3 | $60,000 |
| 4 | $65,000 |
| 5 | $70,000 |
| More than 5 | $70,000 plus $5,000 for each extra person |
Community organizations can adjust these amounts.
Returns clinics do not cover
- Returns of people who have died.
- Self-employment or employment expenses, with a narrow exception.
- Business or rental income and expenses.
- Interest income over $1,200.
- Capital gains or losses.
- Bankruptcy in the tax year, or the year before if that return is not filed yet.
- Foreign property, and foreign income other than U.S. Social Security benefits.
Old returns
Some volunteers prepare past-year returns, but only if they feel comfortable based on what you give them. Ask the clinic first.
Quebec
Clinics in Quebec run through the Income Tax Assistance, Volunteer Program. Minimal fees may apply to Quebec provincial returns.
Questions people ask
Who qualifies for a free tax clinic in Canada?
People with modest income and simple tax situations. The suggested family income limit is $40,000 for one person, $55,000 for two, and so on.
Can a free clinic file my old tax returns?
Some volunteers will, but only if they are comfortable based on the information you provide.