Avoid Delays. How To Set Up Your CRA My Account.

If you plan to apply for the recently announced Canadian Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), or any other COVID-19 relief benefits, we recommend setting up your CRA My Account as soon as possible to help avoid any potential delays. 

What is the CRA My Account?

My Account is a secure online portal that lets you view your personal income tax and benefit information and manage your tax affairs online. With your account, you can:

• track your refund
• view or change your return
• check your benefit and credit payments
• view your RRSP limit
• set up direct deposit
• receive email notifications

Is there anything I need before I get started?

• your social insurance number
• your date of birth
• your current postal code
• a copy of your income tax returns (*the line amount requested for verification will vary and could be from the current tax year or the previous one) 

PLEASE NOTE Your access code will be mailed to your last known address that the CRA has on file, so please ensure that it is current. If do not yet have a CRA My Account and need to update your address with the CRA, please call 1-800-959-8281

How do I create an account?

Use a Sign-In Partner. You can register using the same sign-in information you use for other online services such as your online banking. 

1) Open this link:

https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/e-services-individuals/account-individuals.html

2) When the page opens, click on the green Sign-In Partner Login/Register button 

How long does it take until my account is active?

After you complete step one of the registration process, you will have access to limited tax information on My Account. In approximately 5-10 days you will receive your CRA security code. After you enter your code, you will have full-access. 

What is the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)?

This benefit will provide $2,000 a month for up to four months for workers who lose their income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The CERB will cover Canadians who have lost their job, are sick, quarantined, or taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19, as well as working parents who must stay home without pay to care for children who are sick or at home because of school and daycare closures. This will apply to wage earners, as well as contract workers and self-employed individuals who would not otherwise be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI). 

The Canada Emergency Response Benefit will be accessible through a secure web portal starting on April 6. Applicants will also be able to apply via an automated telephone line or via a toll-free number.

Questions?

If you need help setting up your My Account, please complete the contact form below.

For a complete list of our COVID-19 resources for individuals and businesses, please visit availcpa.com/resources