CRA discontinuing one way for Canadians to submit their taxes
The next tax season will look different for some Canadians, as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) moves to phase out another option for taxpayers to submit documents.
On Thursday, the CRA announced that it’s moving to permanently get rid of one way Canadians have been using to submit tax documents in person.
“The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will permanently close all drop boxes currently available at 45 locations across Canada on May 29, 2026,” they stated. “This change will take place after the 2026 tax filing season to minimize disruption for taxpayers.”
Documents will be accepted via drop box until the end of the day on May 28. Although drop boxes will remain available throughout the 2026 tax filing season, they will be permanently closed shortly after the April 30 deadline, and as of May 29, they’ll no longer be available. There will be signs posted starting May 1 to inform taxpayers.
Why is the CRA discontinuing drop boxes?
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According to the CRA, drop boxes have been dropping in popularity: from 2018 to 2019 and from 2024 to 2025, the number of documents submitted through drop boxes fell significantly by 78 per cent, dropping from two million to just over 430,000.
Canadians using drop boxes also face processing delays and longer wait times as items need to be transported to the correct processing locations. Another reason is due to security concerns.
“Closing drop boxes addresses risks such as break-ins, vandalism, and the handling of suspicious packages by employees,” stated the agency.
Canadians who regularly use CRA drop boxes to send tax returns, payments, and other documents are urged to make note of these upcoming changes and “plan accordingly.”
With drop boxes soon no longer an option, taxpayers can file or submit documents online or by regular mail. Payments can be done electronically or in person.
Visit the CRA website to find a drop box near you.