How Much Income is Tax-Free in BC?

Image of calculator and pen on top of tax forms

In Canada, income tax is based on all taxable income. This is your total gross income for the year, minus eligible deductions and credits. We use a progressive tax system in Canada, which means the more money you make, the more tax you pay. 

There is no such thing as being tax-free unless you’ve been deducted too much. Everything under $43,070 is taxed at 5.06% in BC. All income under $50,197 is taxed at 15% federally. 

Your provincial and federal tax rate together make your marginal tax rate. If your taxable income is $43, 000, your marginal tax rate is 20.06%. 

If you want to figure out your marginal tax rate, figure out your gross annual income and then confirm which federal and provincial tax brackets you fall into. Add the two together and you’ll have your marginal tax rate. 

Generally speaking, most pay cheques will deduct taxes from your salary. If you freelance or work for yourself, this can become more complicated. 

Personal income tax rates 2025

The information on the Genesa CPA Corp. page titled “How Much Income is Tax-Free in BC?” is outdated and requires updating to reflect the current tax brackets and rates for the 2025 tax year.

Updated Information for 2025:

In Canada, income tax is calculated based on your total taxable income, which is your gross income minus eligible deductions and credits. Canada employs a progressive tax system, meaning that as your income increases, the tax rate applied to each bracket of your income also increases.

British Columbia (B.C.) Provincial Tax Brackets and Rates for 2025:

– $0 to $49,279: 5.06%

  • $49,279.01 to $98,560: 7.70%
  • $98,560.01 to $113,158: 10.50%
  • $113,158.01 to $137,407: 12.29%
  • $137,407.01 to $186,306: 14.70%
  • $186,306.01 to $259,829: 16.80%
  • Over $259,829: 20.50%

These brackets are indexed annually to the B.C. Consumer Price Index (CPI). For 2025, the tax brackets were increased by a B.C. CPI rate of 2.8%.

Federal Tax Brackets and Rates for 2025:

– $0 to $57,375: 15%

  • $57,375.01 to $114,750: 20.5%
  • $114,750.01 to $177,882: 26%
  • $177,882.01 to $253,414: 29%
  • Over $253,414: 33%

The federal tax brackets are also indexed to inflation, with a 2.7% increase for 2025.

Understanding Marginal Tax Rates:

Your marginal tax rate is the combined federal and provincial tax rate applied to your next dollar of income. For example, if your taxable income is $50,000:

– The first $49,279 is taxed at 5.06% provincially and 15% federally.

  • The remaining $721 is taxed at 7.70% provincially and 15% federally.

This results in a combined marginal tax rate of 22.70% on the income exceeding $49,279.

Basic Personal Amounts for 2025:

– Federal: $16,129

  • B.C.: $12,932

These amounts represent the income levels at which individuals start paying federal and provincial taxes, respectively.

Conclusion:

It’s essential to stay informed about the current tax brackets and rates to accurately calculate your tax obligations. For personalized assistance, consider consulting with a professional accountant.

If you’re looking to prepare yourself for tax season and sit down with one of our accountants, we’re always happy to help. Book an appointment with one of our accountants today!