What To Do If the CRA Contacts You
Getting contacted by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) might seem scary, but it doesn’t always mean you’ve done something wrong. The CRA may contact you for many reasons, not just because of suspicious activities. It’s a standard part of how the CRA manages and enforces tax rules.
The CRA Called Your Number: What Now?
Don’t panic. Most contacts begin with a formal letter or a message in your CRA online account, and not an unexpected phone call. If you do receive a call, here’s how to handle it safely:
- Ask for the agent’s name, 5-digit identification number and a callback phone number.
- End the call to look them up on their phone number verification tool.
- When you call the CRA, they offer a callback option with a random 4-digit confirmation code they can repeat back, so you can verify that they are a CRA agent.
- Only speak with the CRA through their official numbers before providing any personal or financial information.
Typically, the CRA will call to follow up after they’ve sent a written notice. Because the CRA is now moving towards digital mail, always check your CRA online account for messages.
Reply quickly if the CRA asks for documents. Ask for more time if needed.
Why the CRA Might Contact You
The CRA processes over 30 million tax returns annually. The CRA contacts a subset of taxpayers each year for various reasons such as verification, audits, missing filings, or information requests.
For mental health practices, these contacts are usually routine.
- Confirming information received
- Notifying you about the results of processed returns
- Requesting documents to support specific income or expenses
- Notifying you about an audit or review
- Informing you about owed taxes or debts
- Following up on a missed deadline
Things the CRA Will Never Ask You To Do
Scammers often pretend to be CRA agents to steal your information or money. They use aggressive tactics to pressure you into paying fake debts or sharing sensitive information.
- If they do any of these, report them right away:
- Asking to meet in person to collect money
- Sending emails with links to obtain for information claim a refund
- Requesting driver’s license, passport, health care card, or other identification methods outside the scope of CRA
- Demanding payment by e-transfer, bitcoin, gift cards or other unusual methods
- Using rude language or threatening arrest or police action
- Contacting you through social media or messaging apps
How the CRA Contacts You
The CRA uses a few official methods to reach out, and many notices are now delivered digitally. Here’s how the CRA typically gets in touch:
- Online messages through your CRA account portal (“My Account” or “My Business Account”); this is often the first place a new message will appear
- Official letters mailed to your address
- Direct phone calls, usually after a message or letter has been sent
- Automated phone lines for certain services
- To avoid missing anything important, check your CRA account regularly and make sure your contact information is up to date.
How a CPA Firm Can Help If the CRA Contacts You
Getting a call or letter from the CRA can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone. A CPA firm like Envision Accounting can help make sure you respond the right way and avoid bigger problems. Here’s how:
1. Check What the CRA Is Asking
Not every CRA contact means trouble. We can review the letter or call details, confirm if it’s legitimate, and explain exactly what they need from you.
2. Help You Reply Quickly and Correctly
The CRA usually sets deadlines. We’ll help you pull together the right paperwork and respond on time, so you don’t risk extra penalties or delays.
3. Organize Your Documents
If the CRA asks for receipts or records, we’ll help organize everything properly so it’s clear, complete, and ready to submit.
4. Talk to the CRA for You
You can authorize us to talk to the CRA on your behalf. When you have a CPA as an authorized representative, they can speak directly to CRA agents, answer their questions, and handle follow-ups. This will save you time and energy and reduce your workload.
5. Support You if Things Escalate
If the CRA decides to take a closer look, we’ll guide you through audits or reviews, so you’re not handling it on your own.
With the right help, CRA contacts don’t have to be scary. If you ever get a call or letter and would like some assistance, reach out and we’ll walk you through it. Our 15-minute Tax Therapy session is free, and will help put your mind at ease.
