Keep Your CRA Account Up to Date to Avoid Tax Season Surprises

Tax season is approaching, and keeping your Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) account information accurate is one of the simplest ways to prevent delays and ensure a smooth filing experience. By making sure your personal information is up to date and that you can access your account, you’ll save time and avoid frustration.

Confirm Access to Your CRA Account

Before online filing begins on February 23, 2026, make sure you can sign in to your CRA account. If you’ve forgotten your sign-in details or answers to your security questions, you can self-serve to regain access through the online registration process. If that doesn’t work, CRA service representatives are available by phone.

Tip: Call volumes increase significantly once tax season begins, so it’s best to resolve access issues early.

Add a Backup Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Option

Starting February 2026, CRA account users will need a backup MFA option. This ensures you can regain access if you forget or lose your primary MFA information. You can choose between:

• Passcode grid

• Third-party authenticator app

Note: Telephone MFA will no longer be an available backup option, though it can still be used as your primary MFA.

To add a backup MFA option:

1. Sign in to your CRA account.

2. Select Security settings on the Welcome page.

3. Select Multi-factor authentication.

4. Follow the instructions to add either a passcode grid or third-party authenticator app.

Adding a backup MFA option now will help prevent account lockouts during the busy filing period.

Keep Your Personal Information Current

Update your personal information to avoid delays and ensure you continue receiving eligible benefits and credits. This includes changes to:

• Address

• Phone number

• Direct deposit information

• Marital status

• Email address

• Correspondence preferences

Most updates can be done directly in your CRA account without calling.

Take Action Today

By confirming account access, adding a backup MFA option, and updating your personal information, you’ll be ready for the 2026 tax season starting February 23. Getting a head start now helps you avoid the busiest time and ensures a smoother filing process.

Source: Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) – Avoid tax season surprises by keeping your CRA account up to date!: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/news/newsroom/tax-tips/tax-tips-2026/avoid-tax-season-surprises-keeping-cra-account-up-to-date.html

This article is for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement or affiliation with CRA.

*This article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional tax advice.

While the content is based on guidance from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), it may not reflect your specific tax situation. For personalized tax advice, please consult our tax professionals or contact the CRA directly.