CRA Netfile Access Code: How to Retrieve It

The CRA NetFile Access Code is a crucial part of filing your income tax return electronically in Canada. 

It acts as a security feature that verifies your identity when you use certified tax software to send your return directly to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). 

Many Canadians preparing their taxes each year wonder where to find this code or how to get a new one. 

This guide explains everything you need to know about your CRA NetFile Access Code, where it appears, and what to do if you’ve lost it.

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What Is a CRA NetFile Access Code?

The CRA NetFile Access Code (NAC) is an eight-character combination of numbers and letters used to confirm your identity when you file your tax return online through NETFILE-certified software. 

It allows the CRA to connect your new return to your existing tax record safely.

This code ensures that only you or someone authorized by you can file your personal income tax return electronically. 

You don’t need the access code to view your information through My Account, but it is required when submitting your return directly using NETFILE. 

Where Can You Find Your CRA NetFile Access Code?

You can find your NetFile Access Code on your Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the previous tax year. 

Specifically, it is printed on the right-hand side of the first page of your NOA, usually near the top.

If you filed online last year, CRA automatically included the code in your notice, whether you received it electronically or by mail. 

For those who filed on paper, your NOA will still include the code once CRA processes the return.

The NOA can be accessed in several ways:

1. CRA My Account – Log in to your account and select your previous year’s NOA to find the code.
2. Mail copy – If you received your NOA by mail, look for the code on the first page.
3. Email notification – If you receive CRA correspondence electronically, you’ll find the code by opening the NOA through your secure CRA portal.

If you cannot find your NOA, you can still file your taxes without the code in most cases, though CRA recommends using it for a smoother process.

How to Retrieve Your CRA NetFile Access Code Online

If you no longer have your previous year’s Notice of Assessment, you can retrieve the code directly through the CRA My Account portal.

Follow these steps:

1. Go to the CRA sign-in page.
2. Sign in using your CRA User ID or Sign-In Partner (your online banking credentials).
3. Once logged in, open the “Tax Returns” or “Notices of Assessment” section.
4. Select your most recent NOA (for example, 2024 if filing for 2025).
5. Look for the section labeled “Access Code” on the right-hand side of the page.

If your NOA is not available yet or you’ve never filed electronically, you may not see a code listed. 

In that case, CRA will verify your identity differently when you file. (canada.ca)

Can You File Without the CRA NetFile Access Code?

Yes, you can still file your return without the NetFile Access Code in most cases. 

When prompted for the code by your NETFILE-certified software, simply leave the field blank.

However, CRA encourages taxpayers to use it whenever possible. 

Without the code, you may need to provide extra information from your prior year’s return, such as your total income, for verification. 

Using the access code simply makes the process faster and more secure.

Tax programs like TurboTax, Wealthsimple, and H&R Block include specific steps for entering your NetFile Access Code if available, or instructions for proceeding without it.

What If You Lost Your CRA NetFile Access Code?

If you’ve misplaced your code or your NOA, don’t worry. CRA does not issue a new code upon request. Instead, you can:

1. Retrieve it from your CRA My Account as described above.
2. File your tax return without the code by leaving the field blank in your tax software.
3. Contact CRA if you cannot access your NOA or need to confirm your identity through alternative means.

The CRA’s Individual Income Tax Enquiries line (1-800-959-8281) can guide you through your filing options if you have difficulty accessing your documents.

How to Avoid Losing Your Access Code in the Future

To prevent issues next year, make sure you:

1. Keep a secure digital copy of your Notice of Assessment each year.
2. Enable Email Notifications in CRA My Account so you never miss correspondence.
3. Store your NOA or access code in a password-protected file or document vault.
4. Register for CRA My Account early, which provides permanent digital access to all your future NOAs and tax data.

CRA also recommends avoiding public Wi-Fi or shared devices when accessing tax information online to protect against identity theft.

When Is the CRA NetFile System Open?

The NETFILE service is typically open from mid-February to late January of the following year. 

For example, for the 2025 tax season, it will open in February 2025 for 2024 returns. 

You can use your NetFile Access Code anytime during this period to file or refile your return.