EFILE

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EFILE is the system used by the Canada Revenue Agency as a means for electronically transmitting tax returns. EFILE is only available to professional tax prepares and is not to be confused with the publicly available NETFILE. EFILE is a form of Electronic Data Interchange.

[edit] Requirements

  • A form T183, Information Return for Electronic Filing of an Individual's Income Tax and Benefit Return, needs to be signed by the client.
  • Software meeting CRA certification standards, such as Intuit's Profile[1], or Microsophic Inc.'s Visual Tax[2]
  • Must be a professional to qualify, along with passing the CRA screening of new applicants.

[edit] Advantages

  • Fast and convenient, can be filed anywhere with an internet connection.
  • Returns are processed much faster than conventional paper filing.
  • Reduces usage of paper, saves money and is environmentally friendly.
  • More reliable since you can retain paper slips, and no chance of getting return lost in mail.

[edit] Disadvantages

  • Requires a professional tax preparer to file.
  • Preparer must have knowledge of system and be approved by CRA to EFILE.