License Information

This page provides the information related to the number of returns that can be created and filed using the Netfile version of StudioTax.
The software uses 2 seperate counters; (1) Returns creation counter and (2) License filing counter.

Returns creation counter - Maximum of 20 returns

This counter is mandated by CRA as part of the CRA certification requirements. CRA sets the limit of the returns that can be created on the same computer to 20 returns.

  • The counter increments every time a new return is saved for the first time or if an existing return is saved after the SIN was modified.
  • Spousal linked returns are counted as 2 returns and the counter increments by 2 when a linked return is saved for the first time.
  • Openning an existing return, making changes, other than updating the SIN, and then saving that return will not affect/increment the counter.
  • The returns previously created and saved are already counted, reinstalling the software or deleting the returns will not reset the counter.
  • Do not create multiple returns for the what-if scenarios. Instead, make copy of the return file saved on disk and open the copy to try the what if scenarios.
This restriction is required by CRA to prevent the abuse of the CRA Netfile system by tax preparers who should be using Efile instead.
Please note that this restriction is also included in the software license agreement that the user must accept before resume the installation of StudioTax.
You can find the CRA 20 returns requirement at the following link: CRA 20 returns limit.

License filing counter - Maximum of 10 returns

This counter is defined by the StudioTax licensing system. Each license can be used to file up to 10 returns. Effectively, 2 licenses per computer are needed if there is a need to create and file 20 returns.

  • This counter is tied to a given license and would be incremented every time a return is successfully filed.
  • Activating a new license will reset the license counter to zero.
  • Activating a new license when the Returns creation counter is already maxed at 20, would not allow to create more returns. However, if you already have returns created, then you can still open and file those returns.
  • If you need to file more than 10 returns, then that does not mean you have to install StudioTax twice. It simply means you need to purchase and activate a second license on the same StudioTax installation; effectively replacing the first license.
  • Do not purchase/activate your second license until the software prompts you; use the 10 returns of the first license before activating a new license.
You can find more information at our Payment page.

What if you need to create and file more than 20 returns?

You need to be a registered Efiler and use an Efile software such as StudioTax Enterprise. You will need to follow the CRA guidelines such as ensuring to get the authorization from each taxpayer you file their returns by getting them to sign the T183 form. It is a simple process to apply for a CRA Efiler number and takes at most a month to get the response. More information will be provided to you by CRA when you register for the Efiler number. Follow this link to apply for EFILE.

Note that if you decide to become an Efiler and use StudioTax Enterprise, then

  • You will be able to open and import the returns created by the StudioTax Netfile version.
  • If you purchase the latest Enterprise license, then we will provide free Enterprise licenses for all the previous StudioTax Enterprise versions.
  • You can use your Efiler number and password for the previous versions of StudioTax Enterprise to create and Efile 2018 to the latest tax year returns.
  • You will have access to the many Enterprise features such as the Electronic signature.

For Quebec tax preparers

If you file Quebec returns and you want to use an Efile software, then you also need to apply and get a Revenue Quebec preparer number and password. For more information refer to the following link: transmit your clients' tax returns.

What if you need to file many returns unpaid and/or for charity?

According to CRA rules, you are not allowed to use a Netfile software to file another taxpayer returns regardless of whether it was for charity/unpaid or not. CRA has a process to help those people file for free: CRA free clinics. If you want to be a volunteer in the CRA free clinics program, then you can apply and get free Efile(not Netfile) software form CRA: Volunteer at a free tax clinic.