A lot of new immigrants assume they’ll automatically get a tax refund simply because they’re starting fresh in Canada. That’s not how it works. Your tax return result—whether you get a refund, owe money, or get nothing—depends on your actual income, arrival date, family status, and how much tax was deducted from your pay.

Even if you earned very little, you might not get a refund if you didn’t have enough tax withheld. On the flip side, you could still owe taxes if your income was high or if you didn’t claim eligible deductions or credits. It’s not about being new—it’s about your financial situation and what you’ve reported.

Some people also think they’ll get the GST/HST credit automatically. While it’s often paid out regularly, you need to qualify based on your income and residency. Also, keep in mind that starting in July 2026, the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit will replace the GST/HST credit for most people. There will be a one-time top-up payment in June 2026 for those eligible for the January 2026 payment.

If you're unsure whether you’ll get a refund or qualify for benefits, it’s worth checking your eligibility using CRA’s tools or speaking with a tax professional. But don’t assume anything—your situation could be different from what you’ve heard.

What’s one tax myth you’ve heard as a newcomer that turned out to be false? Have you ever expected a refund but didn’t get one? Share your experience—others might be going through the same thing.