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Understanding CRA's Review Period: How Many Years Can the CRA Go Back?

In handling taxes, it is essential to be familiar with the rules and policies of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). One frequently asked question is: How many years can the CRA go back? This article will thoroughly answer your query and cover multiple avenues through which you can communicate with the CRA, guiding you on how to navigate the website, use the mobile app, or reach out via the call centre.

What You Need to Know About the CRA's Policy

The CRA audit policy states that the agency can review your tax returns dating back to a six-year period. This period begins at the end of the tax year during which the return was filed. For instance, if you filed your 2015 tax returns in 2016, the CRA has until 2022 to review these documents. In some circumstances, the CRA may go back further than six years, especially if they suspect or detect fraudulent activities.

Engaging with the CRA: Using the Website

The CRA’s website is a wealth of information, providing direct, easy-to-understand guidelines on tax matters. It offers an array of online services, enabling Canadians to view their tax account, apply for benefits, ask questions, and even lodge disputes. Here's how to get started:

• Log onto the website and select ‘Taxes’ in the main menu.
• From there, you can review your tax-related information by clicking on ‘Access my Account’.
• Use your CRA user ID and password to sign in. If you do not have an account yet, you'll have the opportunity to register.
• Once inside, you can check for any discrepancies the CRA might have found in your filings, or download notices of assessment and reassessment.

Using the MyCRA Mobile App

The MyCRA mobile application offers a user-friendly, modern way of interacting with the CRA. Available for most mobile platforms, it offers all of the services that the website does in a pocket-friendly format. Users can check their tax records, statements of account, and more, from absolutely anywhere. Installation instructions are as follows:

• Go to your phone’s app store and download the MyCRA application.
• Register an account if you haven't already or log in with your existing CRA user ID and password.
• Manage your taxes remotely, review deductions, or liaise with a CRA officer via live chat.

Interacting with the CRA: Call Centre

The CRA call centre is a hub of tax professionals, ready to address all your queries in real-time. Phone enquiries are generally quicker and more direct than other methods, assuring you of immediate feedback. See the steps below:

• Have your Social Insurance Number, full name, birth date, and address at hand.
• Dial the CRA’s toll-free at 1-800-959-8281 for individual queries or 1-800-959-5525 for business enquiries.
• Follow the automated voice prompts to connect with the right department.

Conclusion

Remember, the answer to how many years can the CRA go back is typically six years unless fraud is suspected. Regardless of how you choose to interact with the CRA - be it through the website, mobile app, or call centre - the key is always to be prompt, comprehensive, and honest in your communications.