CRA to Add New Identity Check for Online Tax Filing in 2027

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published September 23, 2026

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Canadians filing their taxes online will see a new security option next year, as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) introduces an identity authentication step when the 2027 tax season opens on February 22. The measure will be optional for people filing their 2026 tax returns.

Under the new process, individuals and authorized representatives using NETFILE will be able to sign in to a CRA account to verify their identity before filing or adjusting a tax return. A similar authentication option will be available to tax preparers using EFILE.

The CRA says the additional step is intended to strengthen protection of personal and financial information and help prevent unauthorized or fraudulent tax filings. Taxpayers who do not use the authentication option will still be able to file during the 2027 season.

The agency is advising anyone whose CRA account is locked, restricted or otherwise inaccessible to resolve the issue before tax season begins. It also recommends ensuring account information and multi-factor authentication options are up to date.

First-time filers who do not yet have access to a CRA account will still be able to submit their returns through NETFILE without completing the new authentication step.