How to Set Up CRA My Account in Canada 2026 — Step-by-Step

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CRA My Account is the Canada Revenue Agency's online portal where you can view your tax information, check your RRSP and TFSA room, download past returns, set up direct deposit, and much more. If you do not have it set up yet, you are missing one of the most useful tax tools available to Canadians.

This guide walks you through exactly how to register and set up CRA My Account in 2026.

What Can You Do in CRA My Account?

How to Register for CRA My Account

There are two ways to register — using a Sign-In Partner (your bank) or creating a CRA user ID directly.

Option 1: Sign-In Partner (Fastest — Recommended)

If you bank with one of the major Canadian banks, this is the easiest option. You use your existing online banking login — no new password to create.

• Scotiabank
• TD Bank
• RBC
• BMO
• CIBC
• National Bank
• Desjardins
• And more

1. 1

   Go to CRA My Account

   Visit canada.ca and search "CRA My Account" or go directly to the CRA sign-in page.

2. 2

   Click "Sign in with a Sign-In Partner"

   Select your bank from the list of Sign-In Partners.

3. 3

   Log in with your online banking credentials

   Use the same username and password you use for online banking.

4. 4

   Verify your identity

   CRA will ask for your SIN and date of birth to link your bank login to your CRA account.

5. 5

   You're in

   Your CRA My Account is now active. You can access it anytime using your bank login.

Option 2: CRA User ID and Password

If you prefer not to use your bank login, you can create a dedicated CRA account.

1. 1

   Go to CRA My Account registration

   Select "CRA login" and click "Register."

2. 2

   Enter your SIN, date of birth, and postal code

   CRA verifies your identity against your last tax return.

3. 3

   Create your CRA user ID and password

   Choose a secure password. Store it somewhere safe.

4. 4

   Wait for your CRA security code by mail

   CRA mails a security code to your address on file. This takes 5–10 business days.

5. 5

   Enter the code to fully activate your account

   Until you enter the code, your access is limited. Once entered, full access is unlocked.

First Things to Do After Setting Up CRA My Account

1. Set up direct deposit — go to Profile → Direct Deposit. Enter your bank account details so your tax refund and benefit payments come directly to your account. This is faster and safer than a cheque.
2. Go paperless — under My Profile → Notification preferences, choose to receive all CRA correspondence online. You will get an email when new mail arrives in My Account.
3. Check your RRSP room — go to RRSP and FHSA → RRSP/PRPP deduction limit. This shows exactly how much you can contribute this year.
4. Check your TFSA room — go to Tax-Free Savings Account → Contribution room. If you have ever over-contributed, you will see a penalty here.
5. Download your NOA — go to Tax Returns → View returns. Download your Notice of Assessment for any past year — you often need this for mortgage applications, student loans, and benefits.

Forgot Your CRA Login?

• Sign-In Partner users: Just log in through your bank as usual — your bank manages the password
• CRA User ID: Click "Forgot user ID or password" on the sign-in page. CRA will send a reset link to your registered email or mail a new security code

CRA My Account vs My Business Account

CRA My Account is for individuals — personal tax returns, RRSP, TFSA, benefits, and personal tax slips.

My Business Account is a separate portal for business owners — GST/HST filing, payroll, corporate tax (T2), and business registrations. If you are self-employed or own a corporation, you may need both accounts.