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CRA Account Locked or Revoked: How to Get Back In

Too many wrong passcodes lock you out for 30 minutes; three lockouts make it permanent and you must call the CRA. For forgotten credentials or a revoked user ID, register again for a new credential using your existing passcode method. If the CRA locked your account, call 1-800-959-8281.

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Locked by wrong passcodes

After too many wrong one-time passcodes you are locked out for 30 minutes. After three lockouts, the lockout is permanent and you must contact the CRA.

Locked by wrong user ID or password

Follow the locked-account steps on the CRA's user ID and password help page. You can also register again for a new credential, using your existing multi-factor authentication. If the CRA itself has locked your account, you can't re-register: call the CRA.

User ID and password revoked

Sign in with a different credential if you have one (another CRA user ID, a Sign-In Partner or a provincial partner), or register again for a new CRA user ID. You'll verify your identity again with the document verification service or a CRA security code.

Phone numbers

CRA individual enquiries

1-800-959-8281

Monday to Friday, 8 am to 8 pm Eastern time

From outside Canada and the U.S.: 1-613-940-8495 (collect calls through an operator)

Related

CRA Phone Number and Contact Numbers (2026): Every Line and Hours The main CRA phone number is 1-800-959-8281 for personal tax and CRA account questions. For benefits like the Canada child benefit call 1-800-387-1193, and for businesses 1-800-959-5525. All three are open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 8 pm Eastern time, and closed on weekends and public holidays. CRA Multi-Factor Authentication: Passcodes, Backup Methods and a Lost Phone The CRA sends a one-time passcode each time you sign in, using a phone, a passcode grid or an authenticator app. Add a backup method under Security settings so a lost phone doesn't lock you out. Too many wrong passcodes lock you out for 30 minutes. How to Register for a CRA Account (My Account) Go to the official CRA sign-in page, choose "Register", pick how you will sign in (your bank, a CRA user ID, or a B.C./Alberta provincial partner), set up two passcode methods, then confirm your identity: instantly with photo ID, or with a security code mailed within 10 business days.

Frequently asked questions

Will registering again delete my tax information?

No. It replaces your sign-in credential. Previous CRA user IDs and Sign-In Partners are removed, but your tax and benefit information stays with your account.

Sources

North Help Desk is an independent guide, not a government website. Rules, amounts and phone hours can change; always confirm on the official page before you act. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.