top of page

CRA’s Representative Authorization Process for Individual and Business CRA Accounts

  • Mar 18
  • 2 min read

It is important for both individuals and business owners to complete their CRA representative authorization to ensure their accountant or tax professional can communicate with the Canada Revenue Agency on their behalf when needed. Without this authorization, professionals cannot access tax information, resolve account issues, or assist with filings and compliance matters.


Effective July 15, 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has introduced a new online process for authorizing representatives. This change applies to individuals and business owners who want an accountant, bookkeeper, or tax professional to deal with CRA on their behalf.


Under the new rules, all taxpayers must have access to their CRA My Account (for individuals) or CRA My Business Account (for businesses) to approve a representative. CRA is moving fully toward secure online communication, and this change supports that goal.


Why CRA Made This Change

CRA wants taxpayers to manage their tax information online. CRA My Account allows you to:

• View notices and letters

• Check balances and payments

• Track refunds

• Update personal information


By requiring online approval, CRA increases security and ensures taxpayers remain informed about who has access to their tax information.


How to Register for CRA My Account (Individuals)

If you are an individual taxpayer, follow these steps:

  1. Visit Canada.ca and select “CRA My Account.”

  2. Choose a login method:

    • Sign-In Partner (using your online banking login), or

    • CRA User ID and password.

  3. Enter your personal information, including:

    • Social Insurance Number (SIN)

    • Date of birth

    • Postal code

    • Details from a recent tax return

  4. Create security questions.

  5. Wait for a CRA security code by mail (if required).

  6. Enter the security code to fully activate your account.

Registration may take several days if you must wait for the mailed code.


How to Register for CRA My Business Account (Business Owners)

If you own a business, follow these steps:

  1. Visit Canada.ca and select “CRA My Business Account.”

  2. Sign in using your existing CRA login or register for one.

  3. Enter your Business Number (BN).

  4. Confirm your identity using information from your most recent business tax filing.

  5. Complete security verification steps.

  6. Wait for activation if CRA sends a mailed security code.

Only authorized business owners or directors can complete this setup.


How to Authorize a Representative

Once your account is active:

  1. Log in to CRA My Account or My Business Account.

  2. Select “Authorize a representative.”

  3. Enter the representative’s RepID or Business Number exactly as provided.

  4. Choose the level of access you wish to grant.

  5. Confirm and submit.

Always double-check the information before submitting to avoid delays.


Take Action Early

We strongly encourage clients to register now if you have not already done so. This will prevent delays during tax season or when urgent CRA matters arise.


How K Liu Accounting Services Inc. Can Help

At K Liu Accounting Services Inc., we stay on top of tax changes like these so you don’t have to. Our team helps small business owners and individuals plan year‑round, optimize deductions and credits, and estimate tax obligations with confidence.



Featured Posts
Recent Posts
Archive
Search By Tags
Follow Us
  • Facebook Basic Square
  • Twitter Basic Square
  • Google+ Basic Square
bottom of page