Reaching the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is simple if you use the official CRA toll free numbers.
Whether you are inside Canada, in the United States, or abroad, there are designated phone lines to help you with tax-related inquiries, including filing issues, assessments, or section 217 elections under the Income Tax Act.
CRA Toll Free: Information You Need Before Calling
When calling the CRA, be ready to confirm your identity. You will need:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Full name and date of birth
- Complete address
- A recent tax document such as your notice of assessment, reassessment, or tax return
- Alternatively, be signed in to CRA My Account
If you are calling on behalf of someone else, you must be authorized to do so.
CRA Toll Free Numbers in Canada and the U.S.
- Individuals: 1-800-959-8281
- Outside Canada and U.S.: 1-613-940-8495 (collect calls accepted through an operator)
Accessibility Options
- Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-800-665-0354
- Canada Video Relay Service (VRS): 1-800-561-6393
CRA Hours of Service
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET)
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed
- Public Holidays: Closed
Note: Some cell phones and pay phones may not connect properly to toll-free numbers. If you experience issues, use the international numbers or contact a Canadian Government Office abroad.
International CRA Toll Free Numbers
For individuals outside Canada and the United States, the CRA provides country-specific toll free access. Examples include:
- Australia: 0011-800-2326-6831
- Germany: 00-800-2326-6831
- Mexico: 001-800-514-0129
- South Africa: 0800-992-773
- United Kingdom: 00-800-6633-0000
- United States (Puerto Rico): 1-888-772-6448
A full list of international CRA toll free numbers is available on the official CRA website.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main CRA toll free number in Canada?
The main toll free number for individuals in Canada is 1-800-959-8281.
2. Can I call the CRA toll free from outside Canada?
Yes. You can use the international toll free numbers provided by the CRA or call 1-613-940-8495.
3. What documents do I need before calling the CRA?
You need your SIN, full name, date of birth, complete address, and a recent tax-related document.
4. What are the CRA’s business hours for toll free calls?
Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The CRA is closed on weekends and public holidays.
5. Does the CRA accept collect calls?
Yes. Collect calls are accepted at 1-613-940-8495 when made through a telephone operator.
6. Can I use the CRA toll free number on my cell phone?
Not always. Some mobile networks and pay phones may not connect to toll free numbers. In such cases, use the international numbers.
7. How do I contact the CRA if I use a TTY or VRS service?
TTY users can call 1-800-665-0354. For Canada Video Relay Service, call 1-800-561-6393.
