BIG CHANGE: CRA Ends EFILE Authorization for Individuals (Starting July 15, 2025)

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is changing how tax professionals are authorized to access your tax information — and this change affects every individual taxpayer in Canada.

Until now, tax preparers like me could send a signed authorization form (T1013) through certified tax software to gain access to your CRA file.

This option is ending.After July 15, 2025, CRA will no longer accept authorization forms submitted through EFILE software for individuals.

This means a new process is required going forward.

What’s Changing?

OLD way (being discontinued July 15, 2025)

✔ You signed an authorization form✔ I transmitted it through certified tax software✔ Access was usually granted within 1–5 days

➡ This will no longer work for individuals.

NEW Requirement (Effective July 15, 2025)

To authorize me, the CRA now requires:

Step 1 — I submit an authorization request online

(using CRA Represent-A-Client)

Step 2 — YOU must confirm it

You confirm by:

Logging into CRA My AccountorCalling CRA with me on the phone

If authorization is not confirmed within 10 business days, CRA cancels the request.

This applies to:✔ Individuals✔ Sole proprietors (using SIN)

Corporations (business accounts) are already following this confirmation process — no change there.

What If You Don’t Use CRA My Account?

If you don’t have a CRA My Account or find it difficult to use, don’t worry — there are options:

You can authorize me by calling CRA with meI can help guide you through CRA My Account registrationI can prepare your return even if access isn’t granted — but some services may be slower (ex: previous slips, balances owing, etc.)

Why Is CRA Doing This?

CRA says this change is meant to:

✔ Increase security✔ Reduce identity theft✔ Ensure taxpayers know who has access to their files

It does mean a little extra effort up front, but it increases protection on your account.

What Will NOT Change

There is no impact on:

✔ How your return is prepared✔ How your return is filed✔ Your ability to sign documents electronically✔ Your tax benefits, refund timing, GST credits, etc.

Only the authorization process is changing.

Who Must Confirm Authorization?

Client Type	Must Confirm in CRA Account?
Individuals	Yes
Sole Proprietors	Yes
Corporations	Yes (same as before)
Seniors	Yes (or via phone)
Non-tech clients	Yes (we’ll help)

How I’ll Help You

I know this might feel confusing — but I’ve got you covured™.

You can choose:I guide you step-by-step in My AccountWe call CRA togetherI assist you with setup and confirmation

You’re never on your own.

What You Need To Do

1. When I send the authorization request

2. You’ll receive instructions on how to confirm

3. You must confirm within 10 business days

If you do not confirm, the authorization expires and I need to resubmit.

Final Thoughts

This update affects all tax preparers across Canada — not just my office.

Although it adds an extra step, I am here to help make the process:✔ Simple✔ Fast✔ Stress-free

If you’re unsure about what to do — we’ll walk you through it.