With the launch of the MyCRA app in early 2015, the Canada Revenue Agency has modernized to give taxpayers access to key elements of their tax files on any mobile device. Understanding the advantages and features of the MyCRA app can help to simplify the tax process and give you convenient access to your financial information.
The MyCRA Mobile App
The CRA now offers taxpayers online access to their files and other information through its online app. The MyCRA app is not a standalone app and is not available in the Apple app store or the Android app store. Rather, it is a Web browser-based app that can be viewed and bookmarked on any device.
MyCRA is only for individual taxpayers. It lets you securely access and view key portions of your tax files.
As of late 2015, the accessible features are:
- Online payments using Interac Online
- Get help with your taxes
- Check the status of your notice of assessment, tax return, and benefits and credits information
- View your Registered Retirement Savings Plan and Tax-Free Savings Account contributions
- Check the status of registered charities and calculate the tax offset from your donations
- Find a community volunteer income tax program.
The CRA has also announced that MyCRA will soon allow you to:
- Update your contact details
- Enroll for direct deposit
- Enroll for online mail
How to Get the MyCRA App
To get the app, open a web browser on the device you want to use and go to cra.gc.ca/mobileapps. You will see a link called MyCRA next to a red maple leaf logo. Click on it and you will be asked if you want to access the app in English or French.
Once you have made your choice, you will be directed to the MyCRA main page where you will be given five options:
- My information
- My payment
- Help with my taxes
- Charity Information
- Feedback
If you choose My Information, you will be taken to a login page where you can log in using the same information that you use for the CRA’s My Account online service. If you are not signed up for My Account, you will need to do so.
My Payment takes you to the CRA’s online payment tool, where you can make payments on account of any amount you owe to the CRA.
The final three options do not require you to log in and can be accessed directly by clicking on them.
The Help With My Taxes contains, among other features, links to voluntary income tax preparation clinics for low-income families.
In the Charity section, you can instantly verify the status of a charity, ensuring that their registration is valid before you make a donation.
It is important to note that since this is an online app, you may be using your mobile data when using MyCRA. Accordingly, your carrier’s data charges may apply.
