Avoid Tax Season Surprises: Make Sure Your CRA Account Is Ready for 2026

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. A few simple steps now can help you avoid delays, missed payments, and frustrating account lockouts.

Here are some important CRA tips to help you prepare:

Make Sure You Can Access Your CRA Account

Before tax season begins:

  • Confirm you can successfully sign in to your CRA My Account.
  • If you’ve forgotten your password or security questions, reset them now.
  • Don’t wait until peak tax season — call volumes increase significantly once filing opens.
  • If you’re locked out, you may need to re-register or contact CRA for assistance.

👉 Pro Tip: Test your login early so there are no surprises when it’s time to file.

Set Up a Backup Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Option

Set Up a Backup Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Option. If you need assistance accessing or setting up your CRA online account, click here for help: pam@pbtas.com

Starting in 2026, the CRA requires a backup MFA method on your account.

You can choose:

  • A passcode grid, or
  • A third-party authenticator app

Why this matters:

  • Prevents account lockouts
  • Protects your personal information
  • Saves time during busy season
  • Reduces the need to call CRA support

If you already use MFA by phone, you will still need to add a backup option.

Keep Your Personal Information Up to Date

Incorrect information can delay refunds and benefit payments.

Make sure your CRA account reflects:

✔️ Current home address

✔️ Updated phone number

✔️ Correct direct deposit information

✔️ Accurate marital status

✔️ Current email address

✔️ Preferred correspondence method

If you moved, changed marital status, or updated banking details in 2025, log in and update your account before filing.

Why This Is Important

Keeping your CRA account updated helps:

  • Avoid refund delays
  • Ensure benefit payments continue uninterrupted
  • Prevent security lockouts
  • Reduce stress during tax season

Tax filing opens February 23, 2026 — getting prepared now will make the process smooth and hassle-free.

Need Help?

At PB Tax & Accounting Services, we help our clients stay organized, compliant, and stress-free during tax season.

If you need assistance accessing your CRA account or preparing your return, contact us today at www.pbtas.com.

Let’s make tax season simple.

Share:

More Posts

Send Us A Message

Scroll to Top