Ensure a Smooth Tax Season By Keeping Your CRA Account Updated!
Tax season is here - and a little preparation now can help you avoid delays, disruptions, and unnecessary stress later. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has released important reminders to help taxpayers get ready before online filing opens on February 23, 2026.
Take just a few minutes now to review information that could help save you time in the future!
Make Sure You Can Access Your CRA Account
Before tax filing begins, confirm that you can successfully sign in to your CRA online account.
If you’ve forgotten your login details or security question answers, the CRA now allows you to re‑register online and regain access on your own. Click HERE to login or re-register
If that doesn’t work, you can contact the CRA by phone for assistance, at 1-800-959-8281.
Why act now? CRA call volumes increase significantly once tax season starts. Recovering access to your account early can help you avoid long wait times later.
New Multi‑Factor Authentication (MFA) Requirement Coming in February
Starting February 2026, all CRA account users will be required to have a backup multi‑factor authentication (MFA) option on file.
When you sign in after this change takes effect, you’ll be prompted to add a backup MFA option before accessing your account.
Your backup MFA options include:
Passcode grid
Third‑party authenticator app
Note: Telephone multi-factor authentication will not be available as a backup option, although it can still be used as your primary MFA method.
How to add a backup MFA option now:
Sign in to your CRA account
Select Security settings on the Welcome page
Choose Multi‑factor authentication
Follow the instructions to add a passcode grid or authenticator app
Adding a backup MFA now can help prevent future account lockouts and reduce the need to contact the CRA during the busiest time of year.
Keep Your Personal Information Up to Date
Having accurate personal information on file helps ensure:
Smooth tax filing
Timely benefit and credit payments
Fewer processing delays
Be sure to update your CRA account if you’ve had any changes, such as:
A new address
A change in marital status
A new phone number or email address
Updated direct deposit information
The good news? You can update all of this directly through your CRA account - no phone call required!
The CRA also offers “skip the line” digital services that may allow you to complete other tasks faster online
Click HERE to learn what services can be completed digitally – on your own!
Take Action Today
Tax filing begins February 23, 2026, and getting organized now can make the process much easier later.
By confirming access, improving account security, and updating your personal information ahead of time, you’ll reduce the risk of delays during peak season.
Don’t wait, sign in to your CRA account today and get ahead of tax season!
To read CRA’s full announcement, click HERE
We’re here to help - if you have any questions please contact us!