Planning to file your taxes by mail next year? You’ll want to pay close attention — because the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is making some big changes. As part of its move toward a fully digital model, the CRA announced it will stop automatically mailing physical tax packages to Canadians. If you still prefer pen and paper, you’ll need to take extra steps starting next tax season.
Transition
The CRA is modernizing. And fast.
As of the 2024 tax year, 93% of Canadians filed digitally — and the CRA wants to raise that number even higher. Filing online means faster refunds, fewer mistakes, and access to convenient tools like Auto-fill and direct deposit.
But for the remaining 7% still using paper, the experience is changing.
Changes
So, what exactly is new?
The CRA will no longer send out paper tax packages automatically. If you still want to file by mail for the 2025 tax year (or beyond), you’ll need to ask for the forms yourself.
There are two ways to do that:
- Visit the CRA website to view, download, or print your forms.
- Call the CRA directly (you’ll need your Social Insurance Number ready) to request a paper package be mailed to you.
On top of that, some of the tax forms and schedules you might be used to receiving won’t be included unless you specifically ask for them.
Forms
Some of the lesser-used federal schedules are being removed from the default paper package. The CRA says this move is based on data showing that most paper filers didn’t need these forms — but they’re still available separately.
Here are some of the forms being removed:
| Schedule | What It’s For |
|---|---|
| 3 | Reporting capital gains or losses |
| 6 | Claiming the Canada Workers Benefit |
| 9 | Donations and charitable gifts |
| 12 | Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit |
If you need any of these, you’ll have to download them online or call the CRA to request a printed version.
Support
The CRA knows these changes could create confusion — especially for older Canadians or those without internet access.
That’s why they’re beefing up support. Just a day before this announcement, the agency said it’s hiring more call centre workers to help with tax-related questions during filing season.
This follows direct pressure from Finance and National Revenue Minister François-Philippe Champagne, who in September gave the CRA 100 days to address what he called “unacceptable” service delays and access issues.
Options
The CRA continues to push Canadians toward digital filing. It recommends using certified tax software, which can make things faster and simpler — especially with tools like the CRA’s Auto-fill service, which pre-populates parts of your return using data already on file.
The agency is also urging Canadians to sign up for direct deposit to receive refunds and make payments more quickly.
Reality
This shift toward digital is more than just a suggestion — it’s becoming the standard. While paper filing isn’t going away just yet, it’s clear the CRA wants Canadians to embrace digital options.
If you still plan to file by mail, here’s what you need to remember:
- Paper tax packages won’t be sent automatically anymore.
- You’ll need to request them online or by phone.
- Some forms, like Schedules 3, 6, 9, and 12, must be requested separately.
- More help will be available through the CRA’s call centre.
This isn’t just a minor update — it’s a big step in how Canadians will file taxes going forward. Whether you’re tech-savvy or old school, you’ll need to make a few adjustments this time around.
FAQs
Will CRA mail tax forms automatically?
No, you must now request paper tax forms from the CRA.
How do I request a paper tax package?
Call CRA with your SIN or order/download from their website.
Which tax forms are no longer included?
Schedules like 3, 6, 9, and 12 must be requested separately.
When do CRA changes take effect?
These changes apply starting January 20, 2026.
Is CRA encouraging digital filing?
Yes, digital filing is faster, easier, and preferred by CRA.
