The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is changing the way it communicates with businesses—and it’s happening fast. Starting in May and June 2025, online mail will become the default method for most business correspondence from the CRA.
This means important documents, notices, and updates will no longer arrive by Canada Post unless your business takes action to opt out.
This change applies to all of the following:
- Newly registered business numbers and CRA program accounts
- Existing businesses already using My Business Account
- Businesses that have authorized a representative to access CRA info through Represent a Client
Here’s what you need to know and how RHN can help you navigate the change.
Key Dates to Remember
The transition to online mail happens in two phases:
- May 12, 2025: Applies to new business and program account registrations.
- June 16, 2025: Applies to existing businesses.
If you do nothing, your CRA mail will begin arriving through My Business Account instead of your mailbox.
What This Means for Your Business
If your business wants to continue receiving paper mail, you must actively request this through one of two methods:
- Through My Business Account – The easiest and fastest way—if the business owner has access to My Business Account. A new option has been added to the Profile section where you can select mailing preferences. Note: This feature is only visible to the business owner or legal representative, not to authorized representatives like your accountant or bookkeeper.
- By submitting Form RC681 – For businesses without online access, Form RC681 allows you to opt out of online mail. However, it must be signed by the business owner, officer, director, or legal representative. If CRA’s records do not show that person in an official capacity, the form will be rejected—so it’s critical to ensure your information with CRA is current.
Why This Matters
There are a few reasons to act now:
Authorized representatives cannot make this change on your behalf using Represent a Client. If you’re a business owner relying on your accountant to manage CRA communications, you’ll need to step in personally or ensure you’re listed correctly with the CRA.
Delays can lead to missed notices, penalties, or compliance issues. Form RC681 must be mailed and processed manually, so it’s much slower than using My Business Account.
Your mailing address must be up to date with CRA—especially if you choose to keep receiving paper correspondence.
What You Should Do Next
- Log in to your CRA My Business Account and check your mail preferences under your business profile.
- If you don’t have access yet, consider registering.
- If your business cannot use My Business Account and needs to opt out, download and complete Form RC681. Ensure the signer is listed on CRA’s records appropriately.
- Update CRA with any changes to your business officers or mailing address.
RHN Is Here to Help
While we can’t update your mail preferences for you, we can help you understand your options and make sure your CRA records are in order.
The CRA’s shift to online communication is a big change, and acting now will help avoid surprises later.
If you have questions or need guidance, contact RHN today!
This post has been prepared for general information purposes. It is not advice. The information presented may not fit your unique situation. Please consult one of our trusted business advisors at RHN CPA for further clarification and interpretation of your circumstances.
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