Understanding Your T4 Slip

Decode your T4 and know what each box means.

Step-by-step guide

Box 14: Employment income
This is your total gross pay before deductions. This is what gets reported on your tax return and what you pay income tax on.
Boxes 16, 17, 18: CPP, EI, Income tax
Box 16 shows CPP contributions. Box 17 shows EI premiums. Box 22 shows income tax already deducted. These reduce what you owe at tax time.
Box 44 and 46: Union dues and charity
If applicable, these show amounts you can claim as deductions or credits. These reduce your taxable income or taxes owed.
Keep T4s for 6 years
Store your T4 slips with your tax return. CRA recommends keeping tax documents for 6 years in case of audit or review. Save digital copies as backup.