First Quebec Tax Return: 2026 Employee Guide

If you earned employment income in Quebec during 2025 and are now preparing your first tax return in 2026, the T4 and RL-1 slips, separate federal and Quebec processes, and online filing choices can feel unfamiliar.

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 for filing your 2025 return in 2026.

3. Key deadlines for the 2025 return

For 2025 income filed in 2026:

• The filing and payment deadline for most individuals was April 30, 2026.
• The filing deadline for most self-employed people and their spouses or common-law partners was June 15, 2026, but a 2025 balance owing was still due April 30, 2026.
• If you have not filed, submit the outstanding returns as soon as practical and check your CRA and Revenu Quebec accounts for notices or balances.

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

• Receive any potential refunds.
• Maintain access to benefits and credits for which filing is required, when eligible.

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: 2026 filing guide for 2025 business expenses.

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.