What is a CRA Security Code & How to Get One?

The CRA Security Code is a unique alphanumeric code used to access confidential information when using CRA online services.

This code acts as an additional layer of security, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access their personal tax and benefit information.

Obtaining the CRA Security Code is essential for individuals who wish to manage their tax matters online securely.

There are several ways to obtain the code, such as requesting it online or by phone.

You should receive it by letter in the mail within 5 business days of requesting it.

What is the CRA Security Code?

The CRA Security Code is a unique identifier utilized by the Canada Revenue Agency to authenticate individuals’ identity when accessing their online services.

To finish the registration process and gain entry to detailed personal tax information and services provided by the CRA, this code is mandatory.

The purpose of the CRA Security Code is to provide an additional layer of security in order to safeguard individuals’ sensitive tax information from unauthorized access.

By using this code during registration, the CRA is looking to ensure that only authorized users can access and manage their tax accounts online.

This process allows users to validate their identity and establish a secure connection with the CRA’s online services.

To ensure the protection of your tax information, it is crucial to keep your CRA Security Code confidential and avoid sharing it with anyone.

If you suspect that your code has been compromised or lost, it is essential to contact the CRA immediately to request a new code.

How to Obtain a CRA Security Code

Getting your CRA security code can be completed easily.

Requesting a CRA Security Code Online

When you want to request a CRA Security Code online, you can easily do so by following these steps:

  • Begin by visiting the official website of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)’s electronic services.
  • Look for and click on the “My Account” option.
  • Access your CRA account by entering your login credentials. If this is your first time signing up for My Account, follow the steps on the screen to complete your registration.
  • You will be prompted to provide certain information, including your social insurance number, date of birth, and an amount you entered on one of your past income tax and benefit returns.
  • Once everything is validated, complete your registration. You will be automatically issued a CRA Security Code, and should receive it in the mail within 5 business days. 

Make sure to keep an eye on your mail, as you’ll need to use the code promptly before it expires. 

Requesting a CRA Security Code by Phone

To request a CRA security code by phone, you can call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281.

Provide the necessary information, including your social insurance number, date of birth, and other identification details to the CRA representative.

You may need to answer security questions to verify your identity.

How to Use the CRA Security Code?

Once you receive your CRA Security Code in the mail, accessing CRA Online Services involves the following steps:

  • Login to your CRA account with the username and password you created during registration. Alternatively, you can also choose to sign in to CRA through a sign-in partner. This lets you use the same account and password you use for online banking instead of having to remember your CRA user ID and password. 
  • Enter the provided CRA Security Code when prompted.

What are the Benefits of the CRA Security Code?

The CRA Security Code plays a crucial role in safeguarding individuals and their financial information, ensuring enhanced security and preventing unauthorized access or fraudulent activities.

It serves as a means of identity verification when dealing with the CRA, effectively protecting against identity theft and fraud.

The CRA Security Code enables easy access to various online services, including electronic tax filing, refund tracking, and personal information updates. 

What to Do if You Lose or Forget Your CRA Security Code?

If you happen to misplace or forget your CRA security code, or in the event that it expires before you use it, you can call CRA at 1-800-959-8281 to request a new one.

CRA tax documents to fill

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a CRA security code?
  • How do I obtain a CRA security code?

  • To obtain a CRA security code, you need to register for a CRA My Account on the CRA website. During the registration process, you will be prompted to create a username and password, set up security questions, and upon completion, you should receive your security code in the mail within 5 business days.

  • How long is a CRA security code valid for?

  • A CRA security code is valid for a limited amount of time and has an expiration date. It is important to use the code within the timeframe specified on the letter to ensure uninterrupted access to your CRA My Account.

  • What can I use a CRA security code for?

  • A CRA security code is required to access certain services on the CRA My Account platform. These services include viewing detailed tax return status, accessing digital mail, viewing detailed notices of assessment or reassessment, arranging direct deposit, viewing tax information slips, and viewing your account balance and statement of account.

Tara Al-Khudairi

Tara Al-Khudairi is a freelance personal finance writer who has worked in the financial services industry since 2017. She graduated from McMaster University with a degree in Finance and is pursuing her CFA.

She has worked at a major Canadian financial institution in various client-facing advisory roles, starting as a bank teller and working up to a Client Services Associate within the Asset Management division. She specializes in simplifying concepts of personal finance for people of various financial backgrounds.

When she’s not examining the markets looking for the next SHOP.TO, she’s either practicing yoga, planning her next vacation, or has her nose buried deep in a book.