Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Accountant Fees Vary in Canada
- Average Cost of Personal Tax Filing (T1 Returns)
- Cost of Self-Employed and Contractor Tax Returns
- Corporate Accounting and T2 Filing Costs
- Bookkeeping and Monthly Accounting Fees
- Payroll and GST/HST Filing Costs
- CRA Audit Representation and Advisory Fees
- Factors That Influence Accounting Costs
- DIY vs Hiring a Professional Accountant
- How to Choose the Right Accountant in Ottawa
- How BBA Tax Ottawa Provides Value
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
One of the most common questions Canadians ask each tax season is:
“How much does an accountant cost?”
Accounting fees in Canada vary widely depending on complexity, business structure, and the level of professional support required. While some individuals only need annual tax filing, businesses often require ongoing bookkeeping, compliance monitoring, and CRA advisory services.
This 2026 guide explains typical accounting costs in Canada and what you should expect when working with a professional firm like BBA Tax Ottawa.
2. Why Accountant Fees Vary in Canada
Accounting fees are not fixed because services differ significantly between clients. Costs depend on:
- Personal vs corporate tax needs
- Volume of transactions
- Quality of bookkeeping records
- Industry complexity
- CRA compliance risks
- Advisory or planning requirements
A well-organized client typically pays less than one requiring corrections or reconstruction work.
3. Average Cost of Personal Tax Filing (T1 Returns)
For individuals, accounting fees generally depend on income sources and complexity.
Typical 2026 Pricing Ranges:
- Simple employment return: $80 – $150
- Multiple income sources or investments: $150 – $350
- Rental or advanced deductions: $250 – $500+
Professional filing helps ensure deductions are maximized while reducing CRA reassessment risk.
4. Cost of Self-Employed and Contractor Tax Returns
Self-employed individuals require additional reporting through Form T2125, increasing preparation time.
Typical pricing:
- Basic self-employed return: $250 – $450
- Contractors with expenses and GST/HST considerations: $350 – $700+
These returns often benefit most from professional guidance due to higher audit scrutiny.
5. Corporate Accounting and T2 Filing Costs
Corporate tax filings are more complex and require financial statements.
Typical Canadian pricing:
- Basic inactive corporation: $500 – $900
- Active small business corporation: $1,000 – $2,500+
- Complex corporations or multiple revenue streams: higher depending on scope
Corporate accounting includes compliance, tax planning, and CRA reporting requirements.
6. Bookkeeping and Monthly Accounting Fees
Many businesses require ongoing bookkeeping support.
Typical monthly ranges:
- Small businesses: $150 – $400/month
- Growing businesses: $400 – $1,000/month
- High-volume operations: customized pricing
Accurate bookkeeping reduces tax preparation costs and audit exposure.
7. Payroll and GST/HST Filing Costs
Additional compliance services may include:
- Payroll processing: $30 – $100/month + per employee fees
- GST/HST filing: $75 – $250 per filing period
Professional handling ensures deadlines are met and penalties avoided.
8. CRA Audit Representation and Advisory Fees
When dealing with CRA reviews or audits, professional representation becomes critical.
Typical ranges:
- Consultation: $150 – $300/hour
- Audit response and representation: varies based on complexity
Professional involvement often reduces penalties and speeds resolution.
9. Factors That Influence Accounting Costs
Key cost drivers include:
- Missing or disorganized records
- Late filings or corrections
- Multiple business entities
- International income reporting
- CRA disputes or reassessments
Proactive accounting usually costs less than corrective accounting.
10. DIY vs Hiring a Professional Accountant
While tax software may appear cheaper, mistakes can lead to:
- Missed deductions
- CRA reassessments
- Penalties and interest
- Increased audit risk
Professional accountants provide compliance, planning, and peace of mind.
11. How to Choose the Right Accountant in Ottawa
When selecting an accountant, consider:
- Experience with CRA audits
- Corporate and personal tax expertise
- Transparent pricing
- Year-round support availability
- Local knowledge of Ontario tax requirements
A qualified accountant acts as a long-term financial advisor—not just a tax preparer.
12. How BBA Tax Ottawa Provides Value
BBA Tax offers:
- Personal and corporate tax filing
- Bookkeeping and payroll services
- GST/HST compliance
- CRA audit defense
- Business incorporation support
- Ongoing financial guidance
Our goal is not only accurate filing but long-term tax efficiency and compliance.
13. Conclusion
Accounting costs in Canada vary based on complexity, but professional services often save more money than they cost by preventing errors, maximizing deductions, and reducing CRA risk.
Whether you need personal tax filing or full corporate accounting support, BBA Tax Ottawa provides transparent pricing and expert guidance tailored to your needs.
📞 Contact BBA Tax today to discuss accounting services and pricing for 2026.
