how to be authorized representative of a person who is filing taxes for the first time. Pro tax doesn't let us to efile the form to the CRA anymore.

Thank you for reaching out, Ashmir.

You are correct that Pro Tax software no longer allows you to file the Authorize a Representative (AuthRep) form for individual clients. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requires representatives to use the Represent a Client (RAC) portal to request online access to a client's account.

However, a key difficulty for a first-time filer is that online authorization often requires the client to have a CRA My Account, which they cannot fully set up until they have filed a return and received a Notice of Assessment (NOA).

How to obtain Authorization to Represent someone for Tax Filing: You will need to:

1. Individuals with a CRA My Account: If the individual already has a CRA My Account, they can log in and authorize you as their representative. This will grant you access to their tax information and allow you to assist with filings on their behalf.
2. Accountants: The CRA has introduced a streamlined process for submitting client authorizations through the Represent a Client (RAC) portal. If you are a professional tax preparer, this is now the preferred method of operation. For detailed instructions on the new process, please refer to the CRA's guide here.
3. Individuals Without a CRA My Account: Those who have not set up a CRA My Account yet can still take steps to grant them access. To do this, visit the CRA’s website and follow the instructions under the Document Verification Service (DVS) to validate their identity and establish access to the CRA's website. This may involve submitting identification documents and waiting for approval.

For a detailed guide on how to gain access to a client’s account through the Represent a Client (RAC) portal: How to Obtain Represent a Client (RAC) Access.

As always, our Community forum is available if you have additional questions or concerns. We are happy to help.