What Happens to Your CRA My Account Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Type
Government tax portal
Action
File final T1 return
Deadline
6 months after death or April 30
Step-by-Step Guide
Notify the CRA of the death
Call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 or submit a copy of the death certificate by mail. The legal representative must be authorized via Form RC552.
Obtain clearance certificate
Before distributing estate assets, request a clearance certificate from the CRA to confirm all taxes are paid. Without it, the executor is personally liable.
File the final T1 return
File the deceased's final T1 General Income Tax return. Include all income up to the date of death. Optional returns (rights or things, partner/proprietor) may reduce taxes.
Cancel benefits and credits
Cancel the GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, and any other CRA-administered benefits. Overpayments after date of death must be repaid.
Document Now Checklist
- CRA My Account login credentials
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Tax preparer contact information
- Outstanding tax balances or refunds
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with CRA My Account. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
Social Security
Social Security must be notified of death immediately. Benefits paid after death must be returned. Survivor benefits may be available.
IRS / Tax Returns
A final individual tax return must be filed for the year of death. Estates over $13.61M may owe federal estate tax.
Veterans Affairs (VA)
Veterans are entitled to burial benefits, a headstone or marker, a burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate — all at no cost.
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