How to file
Please note that the CRA introduced a stricter validation process in January 2025. XML files that do not conform with our schema and specifications may now be rejected. You can validate your XML file by using an XML parser. This will allow you to verify the format and content of your XML file against the 2025 schema files provided by the CRA. You can find validating parsers on the Internet.
Given ongoing challenges faced by some filers, the CRA will grant relief in respect of late-filing penalties for information returns filed on or before March 7, 2025, for those information returns normally due on February 28, 2025..
If you experience difficulties, please contact us at:
- Call within Canada: 1-800-665-5164, between 07:00 and 17:00 (EST)
- Call from outside of Canada: 613-940-8599
Thank you for your patience.
Internet filing is available starting January 13, 2025.
Our Internet filing applications are convenient, free and secure.
Steps
Have your completed XML files
Have your documentation ready in order to send your information return to CRA.
Determine your filing method
Where possible, you should file returns electronically to avoid the delays that may occur in processing paper returns.
To file your information returns electronically, you can access the Web Forms or the Internet file transfer applications via:
My Business Account (MyBA): Option 1
Is a secure, password protected portal, that allows you to file information returns electronically through Internet file transfer and Web forms
Represent a Client (RAC): Option 2
Is a secure service to access tax information and file information returns electronically on behalf of individuals and businesses, including your employer
If you do not have a MyBA or RAC account, there are other options:
- Web Forms
- For up to 100 slips
Benefits to using Web Forms
- Completely free
- You can file original, amended, or cancelled slips directly from the CRA website. If you want to file additional slips, file them as original slips
- Create an electronic information return as an encrypted .xml file, containing slips and summary, which can be saved and imported at a later date
- Summary totals are calculated for you
- Allow you to print slips for recipients
- The application validates data in real time, with prompts to correct errors before filing your slips
- Send encrypted returns over the Internet
- Internet file transfer
- If you use payroll, commercial, or in-house developed software, to submit an XML file of up to 150 MB (maximum of 1 GB uncompressed) over the Internet
- CDs, DVDs, USB keys
- We do not accept returns filed on CDs, DVDs, USB keys
To access directly to the Web Forms or Internet file transfer applications, you will need your:
- Account number (15 characters RP or RZ Business Number, Trust Number, Non-Resident Number)
- If you have more than one account, you have to file a separate return for each account
- Web access code (WAC)
What is a Web access code (WAC)
A Web access code is a personalized code that is associated with your account number (RP, RZ, Trust or Non-Resident). It is case sensitive.
Where to find your Web access code (WAC)
If you do not remember your code or you need a new one, you can:
- Use our Online Web access code service
- Call business enquiries at 1-800-959-5525
Transfer the file to CRA
Follow the instructions for either:
Filing with Web Forms: Option 1
Web Forms is a free and secured application that allows you create your information return in XML format in order to file electronically to CRA
Filing with Internet file transfer: Option 2
Internet file transfer allows you to use payroll, commercial, or in-house developed software, to submit an XML file of up to 150 MB (maximum of 1 GB uncompressed) over the Internet.
If you get an error message, refer to: Electronic filing of information returns – Common errors
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