I regularly hear from members struggling to retrieve taxpayer records from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). And they're not alone - it's a common challenge. Whether taxpayer records are outdated, the taxpayer is missing key authentication details, or the taxpayer is a non-resident business without CRA portal access, roadblocks pop up all the time.
But there's a lesser-known route that can make life easier: the Access to Information Act and the Privacy Act.
Administered by the CRA's Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) Directorate, these two federal laws give individuals and businesses the right to request certain taxpayer information - legally and directly.
✅ Need corporate tax info?
Use the Access to Information Act. You can request records like prior returns, elections, balances, and even audit working papers- all for just $5. Requests can be made online or by letter, as long as you clearly describe what you're looking for and supply appropriate support (e.g., corporate registers to help prove you are authorized to request the information).
✅ Looking for personal tax details?
The Privacy Act allows individuals to access their own personal tax information - including returns and elections - for free. Again, the request can be made online or by letter.
In both cases, you'll need to verify your identity or authority to access the information. The CRA is generally required to respond within 30 days, although that timeline can be extended in some situations.
If you've hit a wall with CRA access, ATIP might be the key to getting the documents you need.
Access to information and privacy at the Canada Revenue Agency - Canada.ca
Originally posted on LinkedIn on March 30, 2025
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Ryan Minor
Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada
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