Direct Deposit for Individuals: Receive CRA Payments Faster

Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive CRA payments — your tax refund, GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, Canada Workers Benefit, and other CRA-administered benefits go straight into your bank account, with no lost or stolen cheques. Enroll or update your banking details through CRA My Account (fastest), through your bank, or by mailing a direct deposit form. If a payment hasn’t arrived 10 business days after the payment date, call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281.

What Payments Are Issued by Direct Deposit?

Once registered, individuals may receive the following payments by direct deposit:

• Income tax refunds
• GST/HST credit payments
• Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
• Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)
• Climate action incentive and other CRA-administered benefits

Benefits of Using Direct Deposit

• Faster access to your money
• Increased security compared to mailed cheques
• No need to cash or deposit paper cheques
• Automatic and reliable payments

How to Sign Up for Direct Deposit

Individuals can enroll in or update direct deposit information using several methods:

• Through CRA My Account
• Using online or in-branch banking services
• By submitting a completed direct deposit form by mail

Keeping Your Banking Information Up to Date

If you change banks or account numbers, it is important to update your direct deposit details as soon as possible. Outdated information can delay payments and may result in CRA issuing a paper cheque instead.

Security and Privacy

CRA uses secure systems to protect your banking information. You should only provide direct deposit details through official CRA services or your financial institution and never share this information with unknown callers or emails.

Need Help Setting Up Direct Deposit?

If you are unable to register online, a tax professional or free tax clinic may be able to assist you. Setting up direct deposit ensures you receive CRA payments quickly and securely.

Missing Benefit Payment?

If you have not received your direct deposit payment and 10 business days have passed since the payment date of your benefit or credit, contact the CRA at 1-800-959-8281.

Additional Read: FREE income tax clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I sign up for CRA direct deposit?

You can enroll through CRA My Account, through your financial institution’s online or in-branch banking services, or by mailing a completed direct deposit form to the CRA.

What CRA payments can I receive by direct deposit?

Income tax refunds, GST/HST credit payments, the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB), climate action incentive payments, and other CRA-administered benefits and credits.

What should I do if I change banks or account numbers?

Update your direct deposit information with the CRA as soon as possible through My Account or your bank. Outdated banking details can delay your payments or cause the CRA to issue a paper cheque instead.

My CRA payment didn’t arrive. What now?

If 10 business days have passed since the payment date of your benefit or credit and you haven’t received it, contact the CRA at 1-800-959-8281.

Is CRA direct deposit safe?

Yes — direct deposit is the CRA’s recommended payment method. Only provide your banking details through official CRA services or your financial institution, and never share them with unknown callers, emails, or text messages claiming to be from the CRA.