If you’re filing a T2 corporate tax return online in Canada, you may need a Web Access Code (WAC) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This code is required for submitting your T2 Corporation Income Tax Return through the CRA’s Corporation Internet Filing service.

In this guide, you’ll learn what a Web Access Code is, why it’s required, how to get one, and what information you’ll need before contacting the CRA.

A Web Access Code (WAC) is an 8 digit security code issued by the CRA that allows corporations to securely submit their T2 corporate income tax returns online using certified tax software.

The WAC is used specifically for:

Without a valid Web Access Code, your corporation may not be able to complete online filing through CRA approved software.

You may need a CRA Web Access Code if:

Most incorporated businesses in Canada that e-file directly with the CRA will require this code.

A WAC code is only needed when you are completing and submitting your T2 corporate tax return yourself.

For do-it-yourself T2 filing, use CloudTax T2 Basic: https://www.cloudtax.ca/t2-basic

If you prefer a done-for-you corporate tax service where CloudTax prepares and files your return from start to finish, visit: https://www.cloudtax.ca/corporate-tax

With the done-for-you service, a WAC code is generally not required from your side because the filing is handled for you.

Before requesting your Web Access Code, make sure you have the following information ready:

You’ll need your corporation’s 9 digit Business Number assigned by the CRA.

Example:

The CRA will ask for your corporation’s fiscal year end date to verify your identity and locate the account.

Example:

Having this information prepared helps speed up the process.

To get your Web Access Code, contact the CRA’s business support line.

Call: 1-800-959-2803

The CRA representative will verify your corporation’s information and issue an 8 digit Web Access Code over the phone.

In most cases, the process takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes.

This CRA line is usually much quicker than the regular CRA phone support lines, so obtaining a WAC code is often a fast process.

Once issued, you can immediately use the code to submit your return electronically.

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 T2 return can be submitted directly to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Even if you are a first time corporate tax filer and do not yet have a Notice of Assessment (NOA), you still need a WAC to file your T2 return electronically. In this case, you should call the CRA to obtain your Web Access Code.

If you are an EFILE provider, tax preparer, or accountant, review this guide for more details: https://help.cloudtax.ca/en/articles/13981277-how-to-fix-cra-t2-e-filing-errors-efile-number-vs-wac-code-explained

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:

1-800-959-2803

The CRA can manually verify your business information and issue a valid Web Access Code during the call.

When you are ready to submit your T2 return through CloudTax, the platform will prompt you to enter your 8 digit Web Access Code.

Once the code is entered, your return can be submitted electronically to the CRA.

The WAC acts as authorization for secure online filing.

Using CRA Corporation Internet Filing provides several advantages:

Electronic submissions are processed faster than paper returns.

You receive instant confirmation that the CRA received your return.

Tax software helps minimize calculation and filing mistakes.

The CRA’s encrypted filing system helps protect business tax information.

No. A Web Access Code is specifically for Corporation Internet Filing and is separate from CRA login credentials.

Yes, authorized accountants or tax preparers can contact the CRA on behalf of the corporation if they have proper authorization.

The CRA may issue new codes periodically or require verification if information changes.

If you are filing the T2 return yourself through tax software, you will generally need a WAC. If you are using a done-for-you filing service where professionals file on your behalf, the process may be handled for you.

Before filing your corporation return online:

Staying organized can help avoid delays and CRA follow ups.

Obtaining a CRA Web Access Code is a straightforward process that helps corporations securely file T2 tax returns online.

By preparing your Business Number and fiscal year information in advance, you can usually receive your code within minutes by contacting the CRA.

Whether you are filing your own T2 return using CloudTax or working with a professional corporate tax filing service, understanding how the CRA Web Access Code works can help make the filing process faster and smoother.