Is the CRA SimpleFile Legit or a Scam? Emails from CRA about SimpleFile?

If you recently received the email from the Canada Revenue Agency about SimpleFile, like many other Canadians, you probably feel a bit confused by what the message says. Let’s break down the contents so you know exactly what’s going on.

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Is CRA SimpleFile legit?

The CRA SimpleFile program is real, and it is legit.

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What is CRA SimpleFile?

SimpleFile allows you to file your tax return digitally, by phone, or by paper, with the CRA. Doing so allows you to receive the government payments due to you. Life costs more than ever before, and with so many of us feeling the pinch, SimpleFile helps you claim your credit and benefit payments, including GST/HST credit and child benefit, which helps with the overall cost of living.

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There are three different service options for filing your taxes:

• SimpleFile Digital lets you verify your information, answer questions, and file your return online.
• SimpleFile by Phone allows you to answer questions and complete personal information using your phone’s keypad. This process uses an automated telephone service.
• SimpleFile by Paper requires you to verify your information and answer questions on a paper form that is mailed to you. Once complete, you mail the form back in the prepaid envelope.

Am I eligible for CRA SimpleFile

If the CRA determines that you’re eligible to use SimpleFile, you’ll receive a letter from them with an invite to use SimpleFile.

To be eligible for the SimpleFile services, you must:

• have an income under a certain threshold based on factors that include age, province of residence, and disability status
• have income exclusively from the following sources:
  • Benefits
    • Old Age Security – T4A(OAS)
    • Guaranteed Income Supplement / Net federal supplements – T4A(OAS)
    • Canada or Quebec Pension Plan benefits (including disability benefits) – T4A(P)
  • Employment and related income supports
    • Employment income – T4
    • Employment Insurance Benefits – T4E
    • Workers’ compensation benefits – T5007
    • Social assistance payments – T5007
    • Canada Emergency Benefits – T4A
  • Investment income
    • Some Interest Income – T5 (box 13)

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The plus side of using SimpleFile is that you don’t need to do any calculations or speak to any consultants or employees at the CRA to use SimpleFile. You can learn more about SimpleFile at canada.ca/simplefile-pilot or if you have any further questions or concerns about SimpleFile, please reach out If you’re looking for a CPA in Ottawa, please don’t hesitate to reach out - I’m happy to answer any questions you have.

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