Why the 20 returns limit?

NETFILE is an electronic filing service that taxpayers can use to file their own personal income tax and benefit return with the CRA. To protect the integrity of this service, the CRA has set a limit of 20 returns that can be prepared with each NETFILE-certified tax preparation software. Software developers must follow this rule to be certified for NETFILE.

The CRA has determined that a limit of 20 returns, whether printed or filed using NETFILE, is appropriate and sufficient for a NETFILE software product. This will allow even a large family to share one software product to prepare their tax returns.

If your tax return is being prepared and filed by someone other than yourself, do not provide him or her with your access code. There is a separate service for tax professionals to use when filing your income tax and benefit return electronically, which is called EFILE. Tax professionals sign-in using their own user ID and password. They do not require your access code. Before they can file on your behalf, they need your authorization. Please sign Form T183, Information Return for Electronic Filing of an Individual's Income Tax and Benefit Return, to give authorization. This form does not give authorization for someone to file on your behalf using NETFILE.

If you are a tax professional filing on behalf of clients, you must not use the NETFILE service. You must use EFILE to file your clients’ returns electronically.

If you have any comments or concerns about this limit, you can email them to NETFILE-E@cra-arc.gc.ca .