CRA My Account: The simple way to navigate tax season

If you haven't filed this year's taxes yet, it's worth checking that your CRA My Account is actually ready to use. If you've never used the portal before, we'll walk through what it does, why it matters for your 2026 return, and how to get your login set up.

MyAccount explained

Think of CRA My Account as the "Command Centre" for your money. It’s a secure online portal where you can track your refund, view your tax slips, and manage your benefits without waiting on hold for hours. If you haven't set yours up yet, now is the perfect time to get it done.

Why it’s a good idea in 2026

Filing is possible without an account, but it’s like trying to navigate without GPS.

• Authorization changes: As of July 2025, the CRA changed how you authorize tax pros. You can no longer just sign a paper form to give a new accountant access. You will require your previous year NOA in addition to signing the form, which you may have misplaced. CRA My Account is now the easiest way to authorize your rep. You just sign in, and accept the request. It’s literally a 3 minute task, and can be done from anywhere. 

• No paper: The CRA stores everything neatly on MyAccount. Your NOA’s, return details, benefits, and previous years returns, are all in one place. You don’t need to stack papers anymore, which might get lost.

• No more waiting on hold: You also gain access to otherwise phone-call-only features, like filing claims and disputes, amending previous years, updating your name, address, and direct deposit details. All of this is instant, at the touch of a button. No need to wait on hold for 2 hours, just for a 2 minute task.

How to Register (The Quick Way)

You can sign up in three ways: using your Bank Login (Sign-In Partner), creating a unique CRA User ID, or using a Provincial Partner (BC/Alberta).

What you’ll need handy:

1. Your SIN and Date of Birth.

2. Your Postal Code.

3. A specific amount from a tax return filed in the last two years (e.g., the number on Line 15000).

   
   

Pro Tip: You used to have to wait 10 days for a security code in the mail. Now, you can use the Document Verification Service to get full access instantly using your ID and a "selfie."

How to Sign In (Step-by-Step)

Option 1: Using a Sign-In Partner (Your Bank)

This is the most popular method because you don’t have to remember a new password—you just use your existing online banking info.

1. Start: Go to the CRA My Account page and click Sign-In Partner.

2. Select: Choose your financial institution from the list.

3. Log In: Enter your regular bank credentials.

4. Details: Enter your SIN, date of birth, and postal code.

5. Verify: Provide a specific amount from a previous tax return (check your last two years of filings).

6. Access: You’ll have limited access until you verify your identity via the Document Verification Service or wait for a security code in the mail.

Option 2: Using a CRA User ID and Password

Prefer to keep your tax login separate from your bank? Create a dedicated CRA ID.

1. Start: Click CRA User ID and Password on the registration page.

2. Identity: Enter your SIN and personal details.

3. Create: Pick a unique user ID and a strong password.

4. Security: Set up your security questions (pick things you’ll actually remember!).

5. Confirm: Enter the amount requested from your past tax returns to link your identity.

Additional Security: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

To keep your data safe, the CRA now requires MFA. Every time you log in, you’ll need a second layer of protection. You can choose:

• Telephone Passcode: A one-time code sent to your phone via SMS or voice call.

• Passcode Grid: A physical, printable grid you use to verify your login attempts.

To enable MFA: Log in to your account, go to your Personal Profile, scroll to CRA Security Options, and follow the prompts to activate your preferred method.

FAQ

• Locked out? You'll need to call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281.

• First-time filer? You usually can't open an account until you've filed at least one return. Come see us in person and we'll help you get that first one submitted!

• Is it safe? Yes. Both the CRA and H&R Block use bank-level encryption to keep your data under lock and key.

• Filing for the first time? You usually can't open a CRA account until your first return is processed. We can help you file that first one in person!

• Locked out? Call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 or use their online chatbot for a reset.

• Instant Refund? Remember, you must have a CRA My Account set up and active to qualify for an Instant Refund.