How TurboTax Canada Safeguards Your Information

How secure is TurboTax for account management?

TurboTax goes the extra mile to keep your account safe, ensuring your financial details remain private and protected. Here's how:

• Login and device activity. TurboTax monitors every login to your account, looking out for anything unusual, like log in attempts from unfamiliar devices. You can easily check device history in your account settings, and if you spot something odd, change your password immediately and contact TurboTax customer support for assistance.
• Auto email notifications. TurboTax sends email alerts whenever any significant change occurs, like password resets, payment method updates, or first-time log ins on a new device. If you get an alert about activity you didn't initiate, simply reset your password and reach out to support if necessary.

How does TurboTax protect your tax information?

When it comes to filing taxes online, a big concern is keeping sensitive details, like your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and banking information safe. TurboTax takes this responsibility seriously and has built one of the most secure online tax filing solutions, protecting your data every step of the way.

1. Multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security beyond your password. After you enter your password, a one-time code is sent to your phone or email address, and you must enter it to gain access. Even if someone obtains your password, they won't be able to access your TurboTax account without that second code. This extra step reduces the risk of unauthorized logins.

2. Biometric support

On compatible devices, TurboTax supports biometric log ins by letting you sign in using facial recognition or a fingerprint instead of typing in a password. Because biometric data is extremely difficult to replicate and fast to gain access, this method delivers both security and convenience.

3. Data encryption

TurboTax encrypts your information, making it unreadable to anyone who doesn't have the proper authorization. When sending your tax return to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) through NETFILE, TurboTax uses Transport Layer Security, ensuring your data remains protected during transmission. Even if intercepted, the data would be unreadable to unauthorized parties.

Tips to protect your tax and personal information

TurboTax uses robust security measures to keep your data safe, but staying vigilant on your end is equally important. Here are 4 simple yet effective steps to avoid tax fraud:

1. Strengthen and update your passwords. Use a long, complex, and unique password that is a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using the same password across multiple services, and make a habit of periodically updating them. If a criminal cracks one password, you don't want it to unlock everything else.
2. Beware of scam tactics. Phishing emails, phone calls impersonating the CRA, and other CRA scams often try to trick you into sharing sensitive details. Some of the common red flags include generic greetings (“Dear Taxpayer”), spelling or grammatical errors, and urgent demands for immediate payment. If something seems off, don't click any links or give out data. Instead, contact the CRA or TurboTax Support through official channels to verify.
3. Access your My Account on CRA. Regularly checking your My Account helps you spot unusual activity, like changes you didn't make or unexpected notifications about your tax return. If you see something amiss, report it immediately to the CRA.
4. Sign up for CRA email notifications. Enable email notifications from the CRA to ensure that any changes to your account, such as altered banking details, immediately trigger an alert. This way, you can respond quickly if something is wrong, reducing the chance of fraud.

In the unlikely event that someone files a return in your name or commits a tax filing scam using your information, you can report it to the CRA in the following ways:

• Phone. Call 1-833-995-2336 to confirm suspicious activity and request security measures on your account. (Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 7 PM ET)
• Online. Complete the online form, and the CRA will call you within 14 business days to secure your account.
• Fax. Fill out form RC213 (Identity Theft and Suspicious Activity Declaration) and fax it to 1-833-635-2482 to apply protective measures on your account.

Providing as much information as possible will help the CRA investigate and take appropriate action.

Why you should file your taxes with TurboTax online?

Switching to TurboTax Online gives you access to top-notch security features and makes the entire tax-filing process smoother and more efficient. Let's look at some key reasons to file taxes with TurboTax for a smart, hassle-free choice:

1. Instant security updates and patches

With TurboTax Online, you're always on the latest version. There's no need to download or install anything, as new security features and fixes roll out automatically. This continuous updating protects you from potential threats and ensures your tax return is prepared under the most up-to-date CRA rules.

2. Data backup and accessibility

Filing online means your tax returns are securely stored in the cloud, so a computer crash or lost device won't wipe out your files. You can also sign in from any device, like a laptop, tablet, or mobile, to work on your return at your convenience.

3. Easier filing process

By using TurboTax you can quickly import details from previous years' returns, cutting down on manual data entry. Plus, real-time error checks catch potential mistakes before you submit, and on-screen guidance walks you through any tricky sections.

How to contact TurboTax for security-related questions?

If you have questions or concerns about your account's security or suspect any unusual activity, there are multiple ways to reach TurboTax customer care:

TurboTax Live: If you're using a TurboTax Live product, select “Live Tax Advice” to connect with a specialist or “Help” to chat with the virtual assistant.

Community discussion: Post a question in the TurboTax Community if you'd like advice from fellow users or quick tips from TurboTax experts. Just visit the discussion page, choose a topic, and click Ask a Question.

Social media: You can reach out to TurboTax Canada directly on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

Phone: You can call 1-888-829-8608 for TurboTax customer support. During tax season (February 24, 2025, to April 30, 2025), support is available 7 days a week from 9 AM to midnight ET (English) and 9 AM to 9 PM ET (French). Outside of the tax season, you can contact from Monday to Friday, between 9 AM and 6 PM ET (English and French).

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