How to Get Tax Compliance Verification (TCV) from the Ministry of Ontario – Step-by-Step Guide from a Canadian CPA

One of my clients was applying for a liquor delivery license in Ontario, and they needed their Tax Compliance Verification (TCV) number. This was all totally new to me, but as a CPA we often get asked all sorts of business-related questions outside of the tax world. So, I created this guide to help others navigate the process.

What Is Tax Compliance Verification (TCV)?

Tax Compliance Verification ensures that your business is compliant with Ontario tax laws before applying for certain licenses or programs, like liquor delivery. You’ll need a TCV certificate and TCV number issued by the Ontario Ministry of Finance, and the certificate must be issued within six months of your application date.

Below, I’ll explain exactly how to get your TCV in a straightforward step-by-step guide.

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What You’ll Need

To complete this process, you’ll need:

1. Access to your CRA My Business Account (or work with a CPA who can access it for you).
2. An Ontario eTax Account, which you can create at Ontario eTax.
3. A Tax Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter from the CRA to confirm your business is in compliance.

Step 1: Create an Ontario eTax Account

Start by setting up your Ontario eTax account. This account will give you access to Service Ontario’s tools for checking your tax compliance status and obtaining your TCV certificate.

1. Go to Ontario eTax and create your account.
2. Enter your details, including:
   • Your name
   • Your business name
   • CRA Business Number (BN)
   • Email address
   • Phone number

Once your account is set up, you’ll be ready to link your tax compliance information.

Step 2: Get a Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter from the CRA

Your next step is to prove to Ontario that your business is tax-compliant. To do this, you’ll need a Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter from the CRA, which confirms that your business is up to date on its filings and balances.

Here’s how to get it:

Option 1: Do It Yourself Through CRA My Business Account

1. Log in to CRA My Business Account.
2. Look for the option to request a Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter.
3. Download the letter once it’s available.

Option 2: Ask Your CPA to Do It for You

If you don’t have access to your CRA account or don’t know how to navigate it, a CPA can request this letter on your behalf.

Step 3: Submit Your Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter

Once you’ve downloaded your Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter from the CRA, you’ll need to upload it to your Ontario eTax account as part of your TCV application.

1. Log in to your Ontario eTax account.
2. Upload the CRA letter when prompted.
3. Submit your TCV application to the Ministry of Ontario.

What If You Can’t Get the Letter?

If you’re unable to get a Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter from the CRA, you have two options:

1. Contact an Accountant Immediately: A CPA may know alternative ways to prove your tax compliance or help you troubleshoot CRA issues.
2. Call the Ministry of Finance: The Ministry may offer flexibility in certain cases. You can contact them directly at TCV@ontario.ca or 1 (866) 668-8297 for assistance.

Helpful Notes from the Ministry of Ontario

• TCV Certificate Validity: The TCV certificate must be issued within six months of your application date.
• Where to Apply: Visit Check Your Tax Compliance Status to start the process.
• Do Not Upload CRA Letters to DriveON Portal: Ensure you upload the Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter directly to your eTax account, not the DriveON Portal.

For more detailed instructions, you can also check out the Ministry’s helpful YouTube tutorial.

Final Thoughts

Getting your Tax Compliance Verification (TCV) certificate might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s actually a straightforward process if you follow the steps. Ensure you’ve set up both your CRA My Business Account and your Ontario eTax account, and always request your Filing and Balance Confirmation Letter on time.

If you get stuck, don’t hesitate to contact a CPA or reach out to the Ministry of Finance for help. They’re there to guide you through the process and make sure your application is successful.

For more information or assistance, visit Ontario’s TCV page or consult with your accountant. Good luck!

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This is not legally binding tax advice. This is educational analysis. Say hello if you need help.

hello@taxesmadesimple.ca

WhatsApp - 613.600.4194

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