Make a short change list
Instead of starting with every tax form, write down what changed during the year. A new job, self-employment income, a move, rental activity or a change in family circumstances can all be useful context for a tax professional. This list helps shape the conversation; it does not determine eligibility for a deduction or credit.
- Note the change and the date it happened.
- List the countries and provinces connected to your work or income.
- Identify any outstanding return or tax-agency correspondence.
Collect records around each change
Gather your income slips, receipts and supporting records in a secure place. CRA’s preparation guidance explains the role of these records in filing. Use a missing-items list so you can begin the conversation without pretending the file is complete.
- Separate received slips from slips you are still waiting for.
- Organize business and personal records separately where both apply.
- Keep tax letters with their response dates visible.
Choose the next step before sharing sensitive records
Explain the situation through the initial enquiry, without identity numbers or account passwords. Agree who is responsible, what periods are in scope and how documents will be shared. A filing task, a planning question and a response to a tax letter may need different work even when they start in one conversation.
- Describe your situation in ordinary language.
- Ask for the scope and fee before you commit.
- Use the agreed secure document process for sensitive records.