New registration

• Who can apply?
• How can I apply?
• When should I apply?
• Why does it take 30 days?
• Issuance of EFILE number and password

Who can apply?

Any firm, organization, or individual who meets the suitability screening criteria and wants to provide electronic filing services to members of the public, their clients, or their employees can apply.

How can I apply?

Your first step in becoming an electronic filer is to complete the EFILE Registration Online form. This is a one-time application, but in some situations you will have to submit revised information.

The online application is designed primarily for those operating a tax preparation business. Individuals may also apply to become electronic filers. On the online application, where it asks to indicate the "Name of proprietorship, partnership, or corporation", if you are not operating a business, simply provide your name. At "Business Type", select "Proprietorship".

All new registrations must be made online.

There is no fee for processing your application.

When should I apply?

Although you will be issued an EFILE number and password as soon as you apply, your application may take up to 30 days to process. To give us enough time to review your application before the filing season starts, we encourage you to file your application before December 31. If we cannot process your application within this 30-day time frame, we will notify you.

Why does it take 30 days?

We suitability screen all new and existing applicants for EFILE.

While this activity is being carried out, we restrict the access your EFILE number and password will provide. You will be limited to performing EFILE Online Account Maintenance activities only.

When we have completed the screening and when you have successfully met the criteria, we will notify you by EMAIL. Receiving this EMAIL will tell you that you now have access to full EFILE Online options. You will then be able to submit SEND requests and electronically file T1 Returns.

Note: Filing of T1 returns requires the use of certified software.

Issuance of EFILE number and password

The system will verify the submitted form and will generate error messages, if necessary. Make any required corrections, and resubmit the form. Once the application has been accepted (see sample below), the system will display the following confirmation page which will contain your EFILE number and password.

Sample:

The image above is also available in a text version