CRA NETFILE Error 15 – Account Locked

Error 15 means that your CRA NETFILE account has been locked. This happens when a return is submitted multiple times with unresolved errors — after 5 failed attempts, the CRA automatically locks your NETFILE account.

If you attempted to file your return and received an error from the CRA, you must resolve that error before trying again. If you submit your return 5 times with unresolved errors, the CRA will automatically lock your NETFILE account.

Step 1: Find and Fix the Error

Before attempting to file again, identify and correct the issue that caused the error. You can review your filing history and error details by going to:

Tools → Show Filing History

For a step-by-step walkthrough of how to open the filing history, see Confirm Your Return Was Transmitted.

Address the reported error in your return before proceeding.

Step 2: Call the CRA to Unlock Your Account

Once your account is locked, you will need to contact the CRA helpdesk to have it unlocked:

CRA Individual Tax Enquiries: 1-800-959-8281

When speaking with a CRA agent, ask them specifically to unlock your NETFILE account (i.e., restore your access to NETFILE).

Important: Some CRA agents may confuse the NETFILE account with the CRA online account (My Account). These are two separate things. If the agent suggests you contact StudioTax support, insist that the issue is with your NETFILE access and ask them to unlock it directly.

Step 3: File Your Return Again

Once the CRA has confirmed your NETFILE account is unlocked and you have corrected the error in your return, you can attempt to NETFILE again through StudioTax.