Tax Tip: When Should I Notify the CRA of my Marital Status Change?

Overview

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) does not give a specific time frame for you to report a change in marital status, unless you separate from your spouse or common-law partner. In case of separation, the CRA asks you not to report it until you have been separated for at least 90 days. However, the agency advises you to report other changes in status as soon as possible, because your child and family benefits may all be affected. In particular, the GST/HST credit payments and Canada child tax benefits can change. To inform the CRA of a status change, you can do so through My Account, or by calling 1-800-387-1193, or mailing in a completed Form RC65, Marital Status Change.