Overview
The CRA My Business Account is an essential online portal provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for businesses and their representatives to manage tax affairs efficiently and securely.
This digital hub simplifies various tax-related tasks, offering a centralized platform for interactions with the CRA.
- Purpose: Understand what the CRA My Business Account is and its importance for Canadian businesses, as detailed in its core functions.
- Setup Guide: Learn the step-by-step process for setting up your account to gain access to its features.
- Correspondence Access: Discover how to access business correspondence and other important documents through the CRA’s online mail service.
- Management Tools: Explore effective strategies for managing your CRA correspondence to stay organized and compliant.
What is CRA My Business Account and Why Do You Need It?
Starting May 12, 2025, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will transition to online mail as the default method for delivering most business correspondence. Instead of receiving paper notices, businesses will access correspondence through CRA’s secure portal, My Business Account.
This change applies to:
- Businesses with new business numbers and program accounts
- Businesses already registered for My Business Account
- Businesses with representatives using Represent a Client
The move to online mail is designed to improve service delivery, making it faster, secure, and eco-friendly.
Setting Up Your CRA My Business Account
- Update Your Email Address: Log in to My Business Account and ensure your email address is up to date. You can add up to three addresses, including those of authorized representatives.
- New Business Owners: When registering your business number or program accounts, sign up for My Business Account and provide a valid email to avoid missing notifications.
How to Set Up Your CRA My Business Account
Online business correspondence includes tax notices, letters, and forms. Here’s how to view it:
- Sign in to My Business Account or Represent a client.
- Go to “Mail” under the “Correspondence” section.
- Review, print, or download your mail as needed.
Accessing Business Correspondence Through CRA Online Mail
Some businesses will still receive correspondence via paper mail unless they opt for online delivery.:
- Businesses not registered for My Business Account through the CRA account of the business owner or an authorized representative will continue to receive their CRA correspondence by paper mail.
- Charities unless they opt for online mail.
- Non-resident businesses without Canadian-based owners or representatives.
Managing Your Business Correspondence with CRA
CRA has enhanced My Business Account to make correspondence management even easier:
- Improved Sorting: Filter and organize messages more efficiently.
- Enhanced Features: New options like “Reply” for audits, “Switch Account” for managing multiple businesses, and “Proceed to Pay” for direct payments.
- Document Submission: Simplified upload process for submitting required files.
To stay informed about updates to My Business Account, visit CRA’s page on service improvements.
When CRA Online Mail Isn’t an Option
If you prefer paper mail, you can make a request starting May 12 2025 in one of the following ways:
- Update your correspondence preferences in My Business Account.
- Submit Form RC681 – Request to Activate Paper Mail for Business.
Accessing CRA Business Correspondence Through Online Mail
KWB Accountants & Advisors works with business owners to help you navigate new and changing CRA requirements and processes, and to help you simplify your accounting, improve your profit, and achieve your goals. Book an introductory meeting to discuss how we can support your success, ensuring your business stays compliant and focused on growth.