How Far Back Can You Amend a Tax Return in Kitchener-Waterloo?
Tax season is a stressful time for many. Even with careful preparation, making mistakes on your tax return is incredibly common. Whether it’s an overlooked deduction, an incorrect income amount, or simply a missed form, these mistakes call for an amendment.
If you're in Kitchener-Waterloo and wondering about the process and timeframe for amending your tax return, our tax professionals can help. Let’s explore what it means to amend a tax return, how far back you can go, and how to go about making those changes.
What Does It Mean to Amend a Tax Return?
To amend a tax return means to make corrections to a previously filed tax return. This process allows taxpayers to rectify errors or omissions that would affect their tax liability.
Amending a tax return is often necessary if you discover mistakes in financial information, credits, or deductions after the return has already been submitted.
It’s incredibly important to provide the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) with accurate information. Any discrepancies in your tax returns, no matter how old, could lead to penalties and interest on unpaid taxes if not declared by you proactively.
How Far Back Can You Go?
According to the CRA, Canadians can amend a tax return as far back as 10 years before. This means that you can currently amend tax returns as far back as 2015 in Canada.
If you want to amend a tax return as old as 2014 or older, you’ll have to make a written request at a CRA address near you. You can mail your request or visit the CRA address in-person with a written request.
How to Amend a Tax Return in Kitchener-Waterloo
To amend a tax return in Kitchener-Waterloo, and Canada, follow these steps:
Log in to your CRA account and visit the “My Account” tab.
Find the tab that says “Change my return”.
You should be prompted to select a tax year you want to change. You’ll only be able to see as far back as 2015.
If you’re having difficulty changing your tax return, or are concerned about your information still being incorrect, get help from a tax professional. GRFS is a professional tax planner in Kitchener-Waterloo, and can help you navigate Canada’s strict tax rules.
Frequently Asked Questions about Amending a Tax Return
What is the oldest tax return I can amend?
As of 2025, the oldest tax return you can amend in Canada is your 2015 tax return. Generally, you can amend tax returns as far back as ten years ago, which means:
In 2026, the oldest tax return you can amend is your 2016 tax return.
In 2027, the oldest tax return you can amend is your 2017 tax return.
In 2028, the oldest tax return you can amend is your 2018 tax return.
The span of time in which you can amend your tax return may change. Refer to the CRA website to confirm information as needed.
What is the CRA 7 year rule?
The CRA 7 year rule refers to a general recommendation by the CRA for business owners to keep important business documents for up to 7 years. This is recommended in case the CRA ever needs to review or audit your business’ tax returns.
Can I amend a return from 5 years ago?
Yes, you can amend a tax return from 5 years ago. In Canada, the CRA gives you the option to amend returns as far back as 10 years ago.
Have any more questions? Feel free to ask us for more insights!