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How to verify a CRA employee is calling — and not a scammer

A legitimate CRA employee will identify themselves when contacting someone
Jess Balzer
Jess Balzer
CRA
The Canada Revenue Agency headquarters in Ottawa.The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is issuing reminders for spotting scams, so your Christmas isn't ruined. 

In a release, the CRA says with the holidays quickly approaching, scammers might contact people pretending to work for the agency and tricking people into making payments. 

Here's how someone can make sure they are talking to an employee from the CRA: 

  • Tell the caller you would like to first verify their identity
  • Request and make a note of their: 
    • Name
    • Phone number
    • Office location
  • End the call.
    • Check the information given during the call is legitimate by contacting the CRA yourself
    • This should be done before giving any information to the caller

"Once you complete those three steps, you may call back the CRA employee to discuss the reason for their call," the agency says. 

Here are examples of red flags that a scammer is trying to take advantage of someone: 

  • The caller does not give you proof of working for the CRA
    • ie.) Name and office location
  • The caller pressures you to act now or uses aggressive language
  • The caller asks you to pay with prepaid credit cards, gift cards, cryptocurrency or some other unusual form of payment
  • The caller asks for information you would not enter on your return or that is not related to money you owe the CRA
    • ie.) A credit card number
  • The caller recommends that you apply for benefits
    • You can apply for benefits directly on Government of Canada websites or by phone
    • Do not give information to callers offering to apply for benefits on your behalf

A key reason the CRA might contact an individual is if they are reviewing an income tax and benefit return. It can include reviewing GST/HSY, T4 or T5 information. 

A phone call or letter can sometimes be expected telling you your return is being reviewed. Letters can also be posted online through My Account. 

"In most cases, our review is a routine check. It's important that you reply and send all of the information requested as soon as possible. This will help us review your file quickly and easily.

"By calling, we can give you more time to respond if you need it. We can also help you if you have any questions. If you don't reply, we may disallow a claim of yours and you could have a balance owing."

If you have been a victim of fraud or a scammer has tricked you into giving personal or financial information, you should report the situation by visiting antifraudcentre.ca or call 1-888-495-8501. 

You are encouraged to contact local police, your financial institution and credit reporting agencies if you might have been a victim or fraud or unknowingly provided personal or financial information.