The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) manages tax laws for Canada and delivers benefit programs. Knowing CRA business hours is important if you need assistance with taxes, benefits, or business-related enquiries.
CRA has recently extended its service hours to give Canadians better access, regardless of where they live or what phone number they use.
Current CRA Business Hours
The CRA contact centres now operate on extended schedules to improve accessibility:
- Monday to Friday: 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
- Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
- Sunday: Closed
These hours apply to both individual and business tax enquiries, as well as dedicated lines for residents of the Territories.
Why CRA Extended Its Business Hours
In March 2024, the Taxpayers’ Ombudsperson raised concerns about limited access to CRA agents caused by phone number area codes. Some callers, especially Northern residents, were unable to reach CRA even during regular business hours.
For example, callers who kept a phone number from a different time zone were blocked from connecting to an agent.
This created unfair access challenges, particularly for residents in remote areas. The Ombudsperson requested that CRA adjust its system and clearly communicate solutions.
Service Improvements Implemented
In response, CRA extended its operating hours and ensured that:
- Callers can reach agents regardless of their area code.
- Northern residents have equal access to dedicated support lines.
- Canadians can connect with CRA as long as an agent is available during posted business hours.
These changes mean that CRA business hours now give more Canadians the chance to resolve tax and benefit enquiries without unnecessary barriers.
Why Knowing CRA Business Hours Matters
Understanding CRA’s contact centre hours helps you:
- Plan calls for tax or benefit enquiries.
- Avoid peak times and reduce waiting periods.
- Ensure timely access to CRA support before filing deadlines.
FAQ on CRA Business Hours
1. What are CRA business hours for individual tax enquiries?
CRA is open Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.
2. Are CRA business hours the same for businesses?
Yes. Business tax enquiries follow the same extended hours as personal enquiries.
3. Can I call CRA on Sunday?
No. CRA contact centres are closed on Sundays and statutory holidays.
4. Do CRA business hours vary by province?
No. CRA hours are based on Eastern Time and apply across all provinces and territories.
5. Can Northern residents access CRA support during these hours?
Yes. Dedicated lines for Northern residents are available during the posted hours, regardless of phone number or area code.
6. How can I avoid long wait times when calling CRA?
Calling early in the morning or later in the evening often reduces waiting times.
7. Does CRA provide 24/7 online services?
Yes. While phone lines have fixed hours, CRA’s online portal “My Account” and “My Business Account” are available 24/7.
