Skip to content

CRA

How to Check if a Call From the CRA Is Real

Get the caller's name, office and callback number, then hang up. Don't trust caller ID. Check the number with the CRA's official verification tool or call 1-800-959-8281 yourself. Never give personal information on a call you didn't expect.

By Fact-checked by Samuel Athur

Last verified How we check our facts

Why the CRA might really call

To ask for missing information, to discuss an amount you owe, or to tell you about an upcoming review.

Step by step

  1. Don't share any personal information on the call.
  2. Ask for the caller's name, office or location, and a callback number.
  3. Say you will verify and call back, then end the call.

    Don't check the number while still on the line, and don't trust the number on your caller ID.

  4. Check the number with the CRA's verify-a-number tool.

    Enter "1" plus the 10-digit number. The tool doesn't include CRA employees' direct work numbers.

  5. If it can't be confirmed, call the CRA yourself.

    1-800-959-8281 for individuals, 1-800-959-5525 for businesses.

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. Is It Really the CRA? How to Spot a CRA Scam Call, Email or Text The CRA never demands payment by e-transfer, gift cards, prepaid cards or cryptocurrency, never threatens arrest or deportation, and never sends refunds by e-transfer or text. It only texts for sign-in passcodes. If in doubt, hang up and call the CRA on an official number.

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 Spotted something out of date?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.