Understanding the Canada Revenue Agency Audits: Looking Back into Your Tax History

In this article, we'll explore the depth of tax audits conducted by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and uncover how far back they can reach into your tax history. We will also provide options for you to interact with CRA through their website, mobile app, and call centre.

How Far Back Can CRA Audit Your Taxes?

The Canada Revenue Agency can, conceivably, look back into every year of your tax history. However, the standard norm suggests that CRA typically audits the previous six years from the present year, i.e., known as the Normal Assessment Period. Exceptionally, this period can be extended if the agency suspects significant errors, omissions, fraud or wilful neglect.

Interacting with CRA through the Website

The CRA's website provides multiple tools for managing your tax history. Through the 'My Account' option, you can check your tax history, reassess your tax returns, and manage all your transactions with CRA. The 'Online Mail' feature helps track all your communications with the agency. Finally, the 'Pay Now' feature allows you to make instant payments and avoid late-payment penalties.

Using the CRA Mobile App

For those who prefer a digitalized experience, the CRA’s mobile app offers a compact solution. The ‘MyCRA’ app provides at-your-fingertips accessibility for managing account details, viewing notices of assessment, tracking RRSP/TFSA contributions, and monitoring Canada Child Benefit payments. Also, it offers the opportunity to submit necessary documents for an ongoing audit.

Reaching CRA via Call Centre

Should you require direct contact or need more in-depth information on your tax audit, the CRA has set up a dedicated call centre. Trained agents can answer most of your questions about the audit process, calculate owed amounts, and inform you about your rights and responsibilities during an audit. Remember, call centre hours are typically business hours Canadian time, so ensure you plan your call accordingly.

To Sum Up

While the CRA can technically audit your taxes from any previous year, they typically focus on the last six years of your tax history. It's crucial to maintain clear, accurate records to satisfy any audit requests swiftly. Using the CRA's website, mobile app, and call centre can streamline your interactions and ensure you stay caught up with your obligations.

Tackle your tax concerns efficiently and effectively by mastering these available tools and staying informed about your rights and privileges. After all, vigilance is the key to navigating through audits successfully.