If you’re trying to submit your T2 corporate tax return electronically, you may run into an authentication error asking for an EFILE number, password, or WAC code.
This error occurs during CRA Corporation Internet Filing when the system cannot verify who is submitting the return to the Canada Revenue Agency.
The solution depends on whether you are a registered EFILE provider or a business owner filing your own T2 return.
For most corporations filing through modern tax software like CloudTax, the fix is simple and only takes a few minutes.
Why This T2 Filing Error Happens
The CRA electronic filing system requires authentication before accepting a corporate tax return.
When submitting a T2 return, the CRA expects one of the following:
EFILE number and password (used by professional tax preparers)
WAC code (Web Access Code) for corporations filing their own return
If the wrong method is used, the system will trigger an authentication error and prevent the return from being transmitted.
If You Are a Registered EFILE Provider
If you are an accountant, tax preparer, or accounting firm, you likely have an EFILE number issued by the Canada Revenue Agency.
To resolve the error:
Enter your EFILE number
Enter your EFILE password
Submit the T2 return again
These credentials verify that you are an authorized CRA electronic filer.
If your password is incorrect or expired, you may need to update it through your CRA EFILE account or call EFILE Helpdesk.
If You Are a Business Owner Filing Your Own T2
Most people filing corporate taxes are not EFILE providers.
If you are the owner of the corporation preparing and submitting your own T2, you
do not need an EFILE number.
Instead, you must use a WAC code.
This is the most common solution for corporations filing their own returns through platforms like CloudTax.
What Is a WAC Code?
A WAC (Web Access Code) is an authorization code used by the Canada Revenue Agency to confirm that the person submitting the corporate tax return is allowed to file for that corporation.
It is commonly used when:
A corporation files its own T2 return
The filer is not a registered EFILE provider
The return is submitted through CRA-certified tax software
Once the WAC code is entered, the return can be transmitted through CRA Corporation Internet Filing.
How to Generate a WAC Code
If you are filing your corporate tax return through CloudTax, you can generate your WAC code directly inside the platform.
The CloudTax WAC Generator helps create the authorization needed for CRA electronic filing.
Once entered, your return can be submitted directly to the Canada Revenue Agency.
What If the WAC Generator Does Not Work?
In rare situations, the WAC code may produce an error.
If that happens, the fastest solution is to contact the CRA Business Enquiries line at the Canada Revenue Agency.
A CRA agent can usually generate a WAC code in just a few minutes.
You may be asked to confirm information such as:
Business Number (BN)
Corporation name
Filing year
Once the WAC code is issued, you can return to CloudTax and submit your T2 return without errors.
Summary: EFILE vs WAC for T2 Filing
If you encounter a T2 electronic filing authentication error, the solution depends on who is filing the return.
Use an EFILE number and password if:
You are an accountant or tax professional
You are registered as an EFILE provider with the CRA
Use a WAC code if:
You are the corporation owner
You are filing your own T2 return
You are not a registered EFILE provider
Business owners can generate a WAC code using the built-in generator in CloudTax or request one directly from the Canada Revenue Agency.
FAQ
Why am I getting an EFILE authentication error when filing my T2?
This usually happens when the filer enters EFILE credentials but is not a registered EFILE provider with the Canada Revenue Agency. Business owners filing their own returns should use a WAC code instead.
Do I need an EFILE number to file my corporation’s T2 return?
No. Most corporations filing their own tax return do not need an EFILE number. They can submit their return using a WAC code through CRA-certified tax software like CloudTax.
How do I get a WAC code for CRA corporate filing?
You can generate a WAC code directly in CloudTax using the built-in WAC generator. If there is an issue generating the code, you can call the CRA Business Enquiries line, and an agent can provide one within a few minutes.
Can I submit my T2 return directly online?
Yes. Platforms like CloudTax allow corporations to prepare, validate, and submit their T2 return directly to the Canada Revenue Agency without needing additional filing software.