I had multiple jobs - why do I owe tax?

This is a math trap, not a mistake.

Is this you?

  • I worked multiple jobs
  • Each job withheld tax
  • I owe tax unexpectedly

"Payroll withholding always covers my tax."

Each employer applies the Basic Personal Amount (about $16,452 for 2026), but you only get it once on your return.

Why guessing is risky

  • Under-withholding appears at filing
  • Repeats annually if unchanged
  • Interest applies if unpaid

Safe to ignore if

  • I had only one employer
  • Extra tax was withheld

Stop and check if

  • I had multiple T4s
  • I owed tax unexpectedly

Resolve the doubt

Check my withholding risk (2 minutes)

We'll tell you if this needs reporting and what to do next.

"Most people prevent repeat balances with one adjustment."