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The Global Insight

How long do businesses have to keep records in Canada?

Author

John Johnson

Updated on March 07, 2026

6-7 Years
How Long To Keep Business Documents – 6-7 Years. In Canada, the rule of thumb is to keep all important business documents for 6-7 years. The amount of time to keep documents for tax records is different in Canada than the U.S. – make sure you follow CRA guidelines as opposed to IRS guidelines!

How long does the CRA keep records?

six years
If the CRA wants you to keep records for a period longer than six years, a CRA official will let you know how long to keep them either in person or by registered mail. If you file an income tax return late, you must keep your records for six years from the date you file that return.

How do I recover my CRA business account?

If you have forgotten your CRA user ID for any of the following CRA login services, you can recover it. To recover it, return to the service you want to use and select “CRA Login”. On the CRA login page, select “Forgot your user ID?” and follow the instructions.

Does CRA know all your bank accounts?

4. Bank accounts and investments. To spot undeclared, taxable interest, dividend and capital gains income, the CRA has access to info from all Canadian financial institutions. They can also determine if you’ve exceeded your TFSA and RRSP contributions and penalize you accordingly.

How far back can Revenue Canada audit a business?

four years
The CRA audit time limit states that the agency has four years from the date on your Notice of Assessment to go back and conduct an audit.

How far back can you be audited Canada?

The CRA audit time limit states that the agency has four years from the date on your Notice of Assessment to go back and conduct an audit. This means if you file your 2017 tax return in April 2018 and receive your assessment in June 2018, the CRA can audit this return until June 2022.

How far back can CRA audit you?

When to open a business account in Canada?

Have an active Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), with an effective date of registration on or before March 1, 2020. Have an active business current account with National Bank, in Canadian dollars.

How to protect your business account in Canada?

Protect your business account by monitoring your My Business Account for any suspicious activity which can include unsolicited changes to banking, mailing address, unauthorized appointment or changes of representatives or benefit applications made on your behalf. Visit Security of your CRA account for tips on securing your account.

What’s the difference between personal and business bank accounts in Canada?

There didn’t use to be much point in looking for the small business bank accounts in Canada; for years, the only difference between business bank accounts and personal ones was that business bank accounts cost a lot more in fees.

When does Canada Revenue Agency business number expire?

Have an active Canada Revenue Agency Business Number (BN) with an effective date of registration on or prior to March 1, 2020. Have an active business current account in Canadian dollars with National Bank. Have National Bank as your primary financial institution.