How to Update Your Marital Status with the CRA
Notify the CRA of a marital status change — marriage, common-law relationship, separation, divorce, reconciliation, or death of a spouse — by the end of the month following the change. Update online through CRA My Account or by phone at 1-800-387-1193 (benefits enquiries). Your marital status affects the Canada Child Benefit, GST/HST credit, and other income-tested benefits: updating late can mean incorrect payments and repayments later.
When You Must Update Your Marital Status
You should update your information if you:
- Get married
- Enter or end a common-law relationship
- Separate or divorce
- Reconcile with a spouse or partner
- Experience the death of a spouse or common-law partner
Most marital status changes must be reported to the CRA by the end of the month following the change.
Why Updating Your Status Matters
Your marital status affects the calculation of:
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- GST/HST credit
- Climate Action Incentive payments
- Other federal and provincial benefits
Failing to update your status on time may result in incorrect payments and potential repayment later.
Ways to Update Your Marital Status
Online
The fastest way is through CRA My Account. After signing in, select the option to update your marital status and provide the effective date of the change.
By Phone
You can also update your marital status by speaking with a CRA agent. Identity verification will be required.
CRA Benefits Enquiries Phone Number:
1-800-387-1193 (Canada and U.S.)
By Mail
In some cases, the CRA may request supporting documents, such as a separation agreement or death certificate. Mail instructions will be provided if required.
Important Notes
- Both spouses or partners should ensure their information is accurate
- Updating your marital status does not automatically update your address or banking information
- Always report changes as soon as possible to avoid benefit disruptions
Additional Read: CPP & OAS application wait time
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline to update my marital status with the CRA?
Most changes must be reported by the end of the month following the month the change occurred.
How do I update my marital status?
Online through CRA My Account, or by calling the CRA benefits enquiries line at 1-800-387-1193 (Canada and U.S.). Identity verification is required by phone, and some cases need supporting documents by mail.
Which benefits does my marital status affect?
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credit, climate action incentive payments, and other federal and provincial income-tested benefits.
What happens if I don’t update my marital status on time?
You may receive incorrect benefit payments, which can lead to overpayments you’ll have to repay.
Does updating my marital status change my address or banking info too?
No. Update your address and direct deposit information separately — they don’t change automatically.
Saving in the wrong registered account can quietly destroy a low-income worker’s retirement setup. Read our guide on TFSA vs RRSP for Low Income Earners: Avoid the GIS Retirement Trap to discover why RRSP withdrawals trigger a hidden 50% benefit clawback—and how shifting to a TFSA protects your Guaranteed Income Supplement benefits.
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