About EFILE

Cantax FormMaster allows you to electronically transmit returns (EFILE) to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

EFILE is an automated system allowing you to transmit the information contained in personal tax returns to tax authorities via the Internet. EFILE is not an assessment system: it is a different method of delivering tax information to the tax authorities.

Most of the information required for electronic transmission is entered when the return is prepared. However, as the only information available to the tax authorities for establishing the taxpayer’s assessment is what is contained in the transmission file, certain details or information not required for paper-filed returns must be entered by the preparer for electronic transmission purposes.

The electronic transmission of data offers several advantages, such as:

  • Accuracy: The elimination of manual data entry and the introduction of a series of preliminary auto checks by tax authorities allow returns to be processed with more accuracy.
  • Acknowledgement: Provides the security of having a written confirmation that the CRAhasreceived and accepted your tax returns for processing.
  • Secure and confidential:The encryption form used on the CRA and RQ Web sites is the most secure form available in North America.
  • Reduction of costs: By using EFILE you will save money on paper, printing, photocopying and postage expenses.
  • Reduction of the number of copies to be printed: EFILE is an ecological tax return filing system because it significantly reduces printing and photocopying of documents. In fact, with EFILE you can print a single copy of your returns (for your files) or, better yet, print the returns to PDF files.
  • Faster processing:The time required for the tax authorities to process returns is reduced from six to eight weeks when paper filed to approximately two weeks when electronically filed. In addition, by using EFILE you will obtain an immediate confirmation in real time.
  • Refund cheques issued sooner: Clients could receive their refund in the two weeks following the acknowledgement of the return, unless certain circumstances justify a longer delay.

If you want to offer your services as an electronic filer to your clients, you must either register or renew your registration with the CRA.

A new registration or a renewal must be made on-line on the CRA Web site.

New registration

For a new EFILE registration, proceed as follows:

  1. Access the CRA Web site at https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/e-services-businesses/efile-electronic-filers.html.
  2. Click the "Apply for EFILE" section title.
  3. Carefully read the information provided by the CRA, then click the EFILE Registration Online form hyperlink in the "How can I apply" section.
  4. Enter the information requested by the CRA.
  5. Click Submit registration to submit your registration.

The CRA system will verify the submitted form and will generate, if applicable, an error message. Make the required corrections, and resubmit the form.

A confirmation page containing your EFILE number and password will display. Remember to print this page for your records.

The CRA must screen your suitability. While this activity is being carried out, the access normally provided by your EFILE number and password will be restricted and you will be limited to performing EFILE On-Line account maintenance activities only. You will not be permitted to file T1 and T2 returns.

The CRA will notify you by e-mail when suitability screening has been completed and all criteria successfully met. You will then be able to access all EFILE options.

Renewal

Yearly renewal is mandatory for you want to continue using EFILE.

For a renewal of your registration, proceed as follows:

  1. Access the CRA Web site at https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/e-services-businesses/efile-electronic-filers.html.
  2. Click Yearly renewal.
  3. Carefully read the information provided by the CRA, then click the log in hyperlink to access the system.

    The EFILE - Log in page displays.
  4. Enter your EFILE number and password, then click Login.

    A page displays.
  5. Click Submit Renewal.

The CRA system will verify certain information on your form and, if applicable, will send you error message(s). Make the required corrections, and resubmit the form.

A confirmation page containing your new password will display once the form has been accepted and your registration has been renewed.

When is a new application necessary

If your business has undergone one or more of the following changes, you must submit a new application:

  • a business is sold;
  • a business's organizational structure, partnership composition, or controlling interest changes;
  • branch sites or managing offices are added;
  • names of firms or business names change; or
  • partners or corporate officers change.

Contact your EFILE help desk if you need more information about your specific situation. If you do submit a new application, contact your EFILE help desk and ask them to cancel your existing EFILE number and password.