First tax return in Quebec: 2025 guide for new employees

Just started your first job in Quebec and 2025 will be your first tax return? Between T4s, RL-1s, credits, and online accounts, it is normal to feel a bit lost.

This guide walks you through the key steps, from gathering documents to filing with Revenu Quebec and the CRA.

1. Two returns: federal and Quebec

In Canada you must file:

• A federal return with the CRA.
• A provincial return with Revenu Quebec.

The forms are different, but coordinated. Your employer gives you:

• A T4 (federal) and an RL-1 (Quebec) for your employment income.

Most people file online using certified software or with a professional.

2. Core documents to gather

For employees, start with the essentials:

• T4 and RL-1 from each employer.
• Banking details for direct deposit of refunds.
• Prior Notice of Assessment (if you have filed elsewhere in Canada before).
• Receipts for donations, medical expenses, or childcare if applicable.

For a more complete checklist, see:

• Quebec tax checklist 2025 for individuals and rental property owners.

3. Key deadlines for 2025

For 2024 income filed in 2025:

• Typical filing deadline: April 30.
• If you owe tax, interest starts after that date.

Even with a modest income, it is worth filing to:

• Receive any potential refunds.
• Build entitlement to certain benefits and RRSP room.

4. Common credits and deductions for new employees

Frequent items to look at:

• Certain moving expenses if you moved 40+ km closer to a new job.
• Tuition fees if you studied recently (T2202/RL-8 slips).
• Recognized childcare expenses.

For a deeper dive into these, see:

• Moving expenses, tuition fees, and other often-missed credits in Quebec.

5. Software or professional?

• Certified software is usually enough if your situation is simple (one job, few deductions, no business or rental income).
• A professional is recommended if you also own a plex, are self-employed, or have more complex situations.

TaxCove frequently works with employees who also own a duplex or have side income.

6. When you also have a plex or are self-employed

If, in addition to your job, you:

• Own a duplex or triplex with rental income, or
• Run a small business or freelance activity,

You will need extra forms (T776/TP-128-V, T2125/TP-80) and more detailed records. In that case, see:

• Tracking rental property income and expenses in Quebec for duplex, triplex, and plex owners.
• Self-employed in Quebec: which business expenses can you really deduct in 2025?.

Call to action

If you are preparing your first tax return in Quebec and want to make sure you do not miss credits, slips, or online account steps, TaxCove can help. We work especially with employees who plan to buy a plex or start freelancing. To book a consultation, start with the secure tax intake form page.

Important notice

This article provides general information only and does not replace personalized tax advice. Credit programs and forms can change; always check the latest instructions from Revenu Quebec and the CRA or consult a professional.