Filing older T3 slips and returns (pre-2021) in ProFile

Starting with the 2021-T3 module, T3 returns can be EFILED with an EFILE ID and password. The XML filing system for transmitting slips was changed as well. Before 2017, all T3 returns had to be paper-filed. Starting in 2017, you could transmit T3 returns through the XML filing system, though the CRA's EFILE restrictions limited what returns could be accepted.

Below is information to help you get started:

Table of contents:

CRA resources

The CRA's Where to file a T3 Return guide details where a T3 return can be filed.

The CRA's T3 Trust Guide provides information on how to complete the T3 Trust Income Tax and Information Return, the T3 slip, Statement of Trust Income Allocations and Designations, and the T3 Summary, Summary of Trust Income Allocations and Designations.

Back to Table of Contents

About paper-filing returns

ProFile moves details from the T3 Schedules, slips, and forms into the T3 Trust Return Jacket. At the end, a trustee, executor, or administrator will need to sign the last page.

Other forms you may need to file if they are used include:

• T3A: Request for loss carryback by a trust
• T1013: Consent form
• T1135: Foreign income verification statement
• T1141: Information return in respect of transfers or loans to a non-resident trust
• T2223: Election, under subsection 159(6.1) of the Income Tax Act, by a trust to defer payment of income tax
• TX19: Asking for a clearance certificate
• Election: Election to tax income in the trust

Back to Table of Contents

File T3 slips via XML filing (pre-2021)

Older slips can no longer be filed by XML using ProFile. You can file these electronically using CRA's Web Forms application.

Back to Table of Contents

Using the T3Efile worksheet

T3Efile is a worksheet used to track exclusions stemming from the T3 return.

T3Efile automatically calculates eligibility and populates (using Yes or No values) based on the return information.

It displays all unmet criteria for XML filing the T3 return:

If any boxes have Yes in them, this prevents the "Internet file this return?" question in the return's Filing section from activating.

Preparers should review the T3Efile worksheet prior to XML filing. If Yes is selected for any question, you must paper file.

Back to Table of Contents

Internet XML filing a T3 return in ProFile (2017-2020)

Preparers using ProFile release 2017.2.5 and later can transmit eligible T3 returns using the CRA internet file transfer service.

Back to Table of Contents

How does the XML filing for a T3 return work?

Transmitting an XML file electronically to the CRA is different from the EFILE process.

An XML generates based on the information provided on the T3 return; this XML file transmits to the CRA via ProFile.

The CRA issues a confirmation number following submission to confirm the receipt of the XML file.

The preparer inserts the CRA confirmation number on the T3 return.

Back to Table of Contents

What tax years are eligible for the XML filing of a T3 return?

XML filing for T3 returns occurs for 2017–2020. Returns completed in 2021 and later modules should be e-filed using an EFILE ID and password. T3 slips for 2021 and later can still be filed through XML. A T3 return undergoing XML filing cannot have a year-end date prior to January 1, 2017.

Back to Table of Contents

Prepare a return for XML internet filing

1. Open ProFile; ensure you are using version 2017.2.5 or later.
2. Prepare the T3 return (only 2020 modules and earlier are eligible for XML filing).
3. Resolve any error messages displayed under the Mag Media tab of the Active Auditor.

If the information on the return is complete, valid, and eligible for the Internet file transfer service, the Internet file this return? question in the return’s Filing section checks automatically:

Note: If the return isn’t valid, the question stays unchecked and stops the XML file from going through. Check the T3Efile form for any possible exclusions, and review the Mag Media tab in the auditor for any errors.

Back to Table of Contents

Filing the return

1. Open the populated T3 return.
2. Select EFILE, and then Transmit T3 Return. The Transmit T3 Return window will display.
3. Select a return type (such as T3 Return).

4. Select OK. The XML file builds.

If successful, a message indicating the processing and completion of the XML build displays.

5. Select OK.

ProFile will automatically open the CRA transmission window.

6. Enter the preparer account number and Web access code when prompted.
7. Select Next. The Internet file transfer – attach your return window will display.

Note: The XML file path already populates in the directory field. To search for a different XML file, select Browse.

8. Select Submit, The XML file transmits to the CRA.

The CRA provides a confirmation number following transmission.

8. Manually enter the confirmation number in Confirmation Number field of the T3 return’s Filing section

9. Save the return.

Back to Table of Contents