Common EFILE errors in ProFile

Note: The steps to fix an EFILE error code can differ based on the tax year. Starting with the 2019-tax return, the CRA renumbered some line items, so the error messages might not apply to your specific tax year.

Review Chapter 2 of the CRA guide to see the latest error messages.

Error 132

Error 132 occurs when there is missing or incorrect information on the return. Review the following items and ensure the necessary information is present and accurate:

• EFILE ID and password are correct
• NOA retrieval
• T183 is properly filled out

Error 99173

EFILE error 99173 is generally due to a missing or invalid element in the return. The error will, however, always list the cause in the first line:

Causes may include:

•  SIN not entered or invalid, including non-resident spouses. In this instance, enter SIN #000000000 for the non-resident spouse
•  Preparer information has been entered incorrectly
•  Missing EFILE number and/or invalid password

Heads up! If the return is EFILE-restricted and the reason for error 99173 is related to this restriction, ignore this error, as you're paper filing anyway.

SFD/NAICS codes error

This error is usually caused by an incomplete T2042, T2125, T2121 or T1164 in either the taxpayer or spousal return.

In the case of Invalid Schema displaying the auditor, the root cause is that the return has too much data. This fails the schema validation as there are more than 100 entries in one particular section.

Note: According to the CRA this return wouldn't be eligible for EFILE, and would need to be filed via paper filing.

Review the article EFILE error 99173: Tax Shelter number or NAICS element is invalid for more information on NAICS issues.

Other common EFILE errors

When trying to EFILE the T1 return, the transmission dialogue window displays Failed and are no arrow or plus signs that usually display in the left-side of the fail message. Try the following:

• Review the file path under EFILE -> Options -> T1 -> Common.

Failed message without an explanation

Try the following to resolve this issue:

• Review the Info page to ensure that the option for EFILE this return? has been selected.
• Confirm the specified EFILE addresses under EFILE -> Options.

Invalid character in a free format area

The error code number indicates where the error is; for example, EFILE#36699.

This indicates that line 6699 (on form T2017) is causing the issue. In this case, the amount in the field can't be a negative number.