Estimate Your 2026 Tax Refund Before You File
Canadian Tax Refund Estimator 2026, Ontario edition
Most of us find out what we’ll get back (or owe) only after filing. This year you can know in advance, and still do something about it.
What’s different for 2026
The lowest federal tax rate is now 14%, down from 15%. The federal basic personal amount rose to $16,452, and the brackets were indexed up 2% for inflation. Ontario’s brackets moved too, and CPP and EI limits changed. Together, that shifts your bill, so last year’s numbers won’t predict this year’s refund.
The RRSP deadline is March 1, 2027
Contributions made by March 1, 2027 can be deducted on your 2026 return. At the lowest federal and Ontario rates, every $1,000 you contribute saves roughly $190 in tax, and more if your income is higher. The sooner you know your number, the easier it is to decide how much to put in.
Run your numbers in minutes
I built a simple Ontario spreadsheet for exactly this. Fill in the yellow cells, and it works out:
- Your federal and Ontario tax using 2026 rates
- CPP, EI and employment credits, Ontario surtax and the Ontario Health Premium
- Your estimated refund or balance owing
- An RRSP what-if calculator showing the tax saved by any extra contribution
It handles employment, self-employment, rental and investment income, so it works for landlords and side-hustlers too.
Canadian Tax Refund Estimator 2026 — Ontario Edition
Instant download · Excel & Google Sheets
For estimation only. It simplifies some items (for example, it excludes the Alternative Minimum Tax, dividend tax credits, CPP2 and the Ontario Trillium Benefit), so use certified tax software or a tax professional for your actual return. Rates sourced from the CRA and the Ontario Ministry of Finance. Not tax advice.
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