How much does a CPA cost in Ontario?

CPA fees in Ontario vary by complexity, firm size, and engagement type — but knowing the typical ranges for 2026 puts you in a stronger negotiating position and helps you spot overpricing.

How much does a CPA cost for a personal tax return in Ontario?

For a simple personal T1 return (T4 employment income, RRSP contributions, basic deductions), expect to pay $200–$400. If you have self-employment income, rental properties, or foreign income: $400–$900. Returns involving trust income, foreign property (T1135), or multiple income streams can exceed $1,200.

How much does a corporate T2 tax return cost in Ontario?

A corporate T2 return for a small CCPC with clean bookkeeping typically costs $1,200–$3,500. Add year-end bookkeeping cleanup and the total package often runs $2,500–$6,000. Professional corporations (medical, dental, legal) with complex dividend and salary optimization cost $3,000–$8,000 at mid-size CPA firms.

What drives the cost of a CPA engagement higher?

The biggest cost drivers are: (1) bookkeeping quality — disorganized records triple prep time; (2) complexity of transactions — holding companies, intercompany loans, and related-party transactions; (3) tight deadlines — rush fees of 25–50% are common; (4) assurance level — audit vs. review vs. compilation (audit costs 3–10× more); and (5) firm size — Big Four firms charge 2–4× the rates of boutique CPA firms.

Is a review engagement or audit required for my Ontario company?

Most private Ontario companies are not legally required to have an audit. You may need one if: a lender requires it under a covenant, a shareholder agreement requires it, or you hold a government licence. A review engagement — typically $4,000–$15,000 — satisfies many bank and stakeholder requirements. Insight Accounting CPA is LPA-licensed to perform both review engagements and audits.

How much do fractional CFO services cost in Ontario?

Fractional CFO services range from $1,500–$8,000/month depending on hours and scope. A typical engagement for a $2M–$10M revenue SME averages $2,500–$4,000/month for 10–20 hours of strategic finance oversight.

Does CPA Ontario regulate fees?

No — CPA Ontario does not set fee schedules. CPAs must charge fees that are reasonable and proportionate to the work performed. Always get a written engagement letter with a fee estimate or cap before work begins.

Reviewed by: Bader A. Chowdry, CPA CA LPA — Insight Accounting CPA Professional Corporation, Mississauga, Ontario. Last reviewed: June 6, 2026.