What you need before you file

Before you (the TFSA issuer) use any of the filing methods, you must have a valid TFSA RZ program account number.

RZ program account number

The RZ program account number consists of three parts:

• the business number (BN),
• a two-letter program identifier (RZ), and
• a four-digit reference number.

The entire account number has 15 characters. If you already have a BN you only need to add the TFSA RZ program account number to your existing BN. You can obtain a TFSA RZ program account by filling out Form RC257, Request for an Information Return Program Account (RZ).

If you do not have a BN, you must first complete Form RC1, Request for a Business Number (BN), and submit it to us along with Form RC257, Request for an Information Return Program Account (RZ). Both of these applications can be filled out by phone, or you can send them by fax or mail. For a list of addresses and fax numbers where the form can be sent, or to register for a BN online, see Business Number (BN) registration. To register by phone, call 1-800-959-5525.

For more information, see Pamphlet RC2, The Business Number and Your Canada Revenue Agency Program Accounts.

Web access code (WAC)

To file your return over the Internet using either the Internet file transfer (XML) or Web Forms service, you will need a business number and its associated Web access code (WAC), unless you are filing through My Business Account or Represent a Client. For more information about these services, see Filing without an access code.

The CRA is no longer mailing the Web access code letters. As a result you can use the WAC that was issued to you for the 2012 tax year to file your information returns. If you have misplaced or do not have a WAC, you can obtain one at Filing Information Returns Electronically by selecting “Need a Web access code?” If you cannot obtain your WAC online or would like to change it, call 1-800-959-5525.

Filing without a web access code

You can file TFSA returns online without a web access code (WAC) by selecting "TFSA" listed under the "Other accounts" tab and then selecting the "File a return" option by registering or logging in:

• Represent a Client, if you are an authorized employee or representative; or
• My Business Account, if you are the business owner.

If you have already registered with our online services, you can login using your CRA user ID and password or the Sign-in Partner option.

Forms and publications

• Guide RC4466, Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) Guide for individuals
• Pamphlet RC2, The Business Number and Your Canada Revenue Agency Program Accounts
• Form RC1, Request for a Business Number (BN)
• Form RC257, Request for an Information Return Program Account (RZ)

Date modified:

2016-11-16