Jobs and Taxes

Your T4 and First Tax Return

Understand the purpose of a T4 and what to gather before filing.

6 minutesIntermediateReviewed July 23, 2026Lesson 12 of 15

A T4 reports employment income and certain payroll deductions for a calendar year.

When to expect it

Most common slips, including T4s, are generally provided by the end of February following the tax year. A slip always names the tax year it covers — check that label before using it, because you file one return per tax year.

You may receive several T4s if you had several employers.

What it shows

A T4 may include employment income, tax deducted, CPP or QPP, EI premiums and employer information.

A T4 is not a bill and does not automatically mean more tax is owed.

Missing slips

Contact the employer first.

The slip may later appear through CRA online services.

Keep pay records.

Try this

  1. 1List every employer you worked for this year.
  2. 2Note whether you received a T4 from each.
  3. 3Store slips and receipts in one place until you file.
Check your understanding

3 questions

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Questions completed: 0 of 3

Question 1 of 3
What is a T4 slip?
Question 2 of 3
You worked two part-time jobs during the year. What should you expect?
Question 3 of 3
Which is the safest way to check your slips and filing details?
Educational content only. TaxLoophole.ca provides general educational information and does not provide personalized tax, legal or financial advice. Rules may change and may differ based on your province, territory and circumstances. Verify important decisions with the Canada Revenue Agency, another appropriate government source or a qualified professional.

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