How to Set Up CRA My Account + Direct Deposit (So You Can File Faster When NETFILE Opens) - S & V TAX

How to Set Up CRA My Account + Direct Deposit (So You Can File Faster When NETFILE Opens)

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Vignesh Sathyamoorthi

February 12, 2026

Tax Services

How to Set Up CRA My Account + Direct Deposit (So You Can File Faster When NETFILE Opens)

If you want a faster refund and fewer CRA delays this tax season, your best move is to set up CRA My Account and confirm Direct Deposit before you file. With NETFILE opening on February 23, 2026 for 2025 returns, getting your CRA account ready now can save you stress later.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to (1) access CRA My Account, (2) set up or update direct deposit, and (3) avoid the common issues that slow refunds. If you’d like us to handle your tax filing end-to-end, visit our Personal Tax Filing Services page or reach out through our Contact page.

Why CRA My Account + Direct Deposit matters before NETFILE opens

CRA My Account is where you can view tax slips the CRA has on file, check your Notice of Assessment, track refunds, update personal details, and see important messages. Direct deposit is how refunds and benefit payments are paid faster and more securely.

Best approach: Confirm CRA access now → confirm direct deposit → gather slips → file once NETFILE opens and your documents are complete.

Step 1: What you need before setting up CRA My Account

Before you start, have the following ready. This helps you register quickly and avoids failed attempts that can slow you down.

Your SIN (Social Insurance Number)

Your date of birth and current postal code

Your last filed tax return information (often required for identity verification)

A reliable email address and phone number (for security verification)

If you haven’t filed in the past or your information has changed, don’t worry — our team can guide you through the best path as part of our Personal Tax Filing Services.

Step 2: How to register and log in to CRA My Account

There are generally two common ways to access CRA My Account: using a sign-in partner (such as your online banking sign-in) or creating a CRA user ID and password. Choose the option you’re most comfortable with.

Create your CRA login: Follow the prompts to register, verify your identity, and enable security features.

Turn on extra security: Use multi-factor authentication if available and keep your contact information up to date.

Check your key tax details: Once inside, review your address, direct deposit, and messages/notifications.

After you log in successfully, you’ll be able to view important items such as Notices of Assessment, benefits, and (in many cases) tax slips on file. You still need to collect your slips from employers and institutions, but CRA My Account can help you confirm what’s been reported.

Step 3: How to set up (or update) CRA Direct Deposit

Direct deposit is one of the biggest “speed boosters” for your refund and benefit payments. Even if you already have direct deposit set up, confirm the account details before you file — especially if you recently changed banks.

Log in to CRA My Account

Find direct deposit settings in your profile/account settings

Enter or confirm your banking details (institution number, transit number, and account number)

Save and confirm your update, and keep a screenshot or note for your records

Tip: If you’re expecting a refund, direct deposit helps avoid delays caused by mailed cheques and address errors.

Step 4: A quick slip checklist (so you’re ready when NETFILE opens)

CRA My Account helps, but your return is only as accurate as your documents. Create one folder (digital or paper) and start collecting slips now so you can file faster when NETFILE opens.

T4 (employment income)

T4A (pensions, scholarships, commissions, other income types)

T5 (interest/dividends and other investment income)

RRSP contribution receipts

T2202 (tuition)

If you’re an employer preparing employee T4 slips and summaries, we can help through our T4 Filing Services. And if you’re self-employed or registered for GST/HST, we also provide support via our GST/HST Filing Services.

Common problems (and how to fix them quickly)

Here are the top issues Canadians run into when trying to log in or update direct deposit — plus what to do next.

Locked out of your CRA account: Attempt fewer retries and use account recovery options to avoid extended lockouts.

Address/phone/email outdated: Update your profile to ensure CRA notices and verification steps work properly.

Direct deposit set to an old bank account: Update it before you file to prevent refund delays.

Missing slips: Gather them first; filing with missing slips can lead to amendments or CRA matching issues.

CRA follow-up letters: Respond quickly and keep documents organized to avoid delays.

If you’re stuck or worried about doing it wrong, contact us early. We can help you get organized and file accurately through Personal Tax Filing Services or via our Contact page.

Final 10-minute checklist (do this before Feb 23, 2026)

Log in to CRA My Account (or start registration)

Confirm your address, phone, and email are current

Set up or confirm CRA direct deposit details

Create one folder for all 2025 slips (T4, T5, T4A, RRSP, tuition, etc.)

If you’re self-employed, summarize income/expenses and keep receipts organized

Get started with S & V TAX

Want to file quickly and avoid CRA issues?

Book help through our Personal Tax Filing Services page or Contact us for a personalized quote. We support individuals, families, and self-employed Canadians across the country.

Set up your CRA My Account and direct deposit now — then file confidently when NETFILE opens on February 23, 2026.

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