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January 9, 2024
Question

Submit T4's to CRA - how to download XML file

  • January 9, 2024
  • 4 replies
  • 0 views

I was able to print the T4's and summary. According to QBO's instructions, I'm supposed to be able to "download XML file" from the "T4 Employer Slips" section. However, the only option I have is to "View XML" and it just shows programming info. I hope I don't have to manually input each employee's T4's into CRA's website!!! Can someone enlighten me? Thanks.

4 replies

January 9, 2024

Hi Mabel_BC,

 

Having the ability to upload the T4 XML file on the CRA website, is a real time saver.  QuickBooks Online enables the process to completed effortlessly.  I would be glad to assist!

 

Under T4 Employer Slips, select Preview to make sure all areas are correct. You should be able to proceed to download the XML file that needs to be uploaded to the CRA website.  Here's how;

 

1. Continue by navigating to the CRA Filing Information Returns Electronically page on the CRA website.

2. Select Internet file transfer

3. Read through the Disclaimer and select I agree

4. Enter the Account number with no dashes or spaces, and the case-sensitive Web access code you received from the CRA.

5. Hit Next

6. Browse to find the T4 XML file on your computer and upload it to the CRA website.

7. Submit your return.
Note: The T4 XML file generated by QuickBooks Online also includes your T4 Summary. You don't need to submit it separately to the CRA.

 

Should you require additional assistance, I encourage you to contact our QuickBooks Online Payroll specialists at 1-855-253-1536 from Monday to Friday between the hours of 9 AM and 8 PM EST.  They will have the ability to look into any other underlying concerns, and ensure you're able to submit the T4 slips in a timely fashion!

 

Feel free to reach out again, if you have other questions.  We would be happy to help!

January 27, 2025

in 2024, CRA is looking to match the id of the filer to their record.

where to add the filer ID

January 27, 2025

If you are using Represent a Client to file the T4's, this is what worked for me.

Once you download the XML file from QB, you need to manually edit the XML file and add the Rep ID in order for the CRA to accept it. To edit the file, download any app for editing XML files. I used Microsoft XML Notepad. You also need to get your Rep ID, when you log into your CRA account, it should show up in the top right corner near your name - it's 7 characters.

Copy and paste the 3 lines below in between  </TransmitterAccountNumber> and  <summ_cnt>X</summ_cnt> in the XML file. (Replace the XXXXXXX with your RepID)

<TransmitterRepID>
<RepID>XXXXXXX</RepID>
</TransmitterRepID>

Then save and upload it to the CRA.
Not sure if the indents are important, I attached a picture of how I lined mine up.

Hope that helps.

Mabel_BCAuthor
January 9, 2024

Nevermind. I called QBO. After "View XML". The instructions should read "right mouse click" to "Save Page As...."

It saves the page as a XML file. There is nothing to "download".

January 9, 2024

Hi Mabel_BC,

 

Thank you very much for getting back to us with your findings.  We appreciate the information you've provided as it will help many other QuickBooks Community members as well.  I am also making note of this, to ensure I provide accurate information when assisting QuickBooks Online customers, who encounter the same issue, moving forward.  Thanks again!

Mabel_BCAuthor
January 9, 2024

I spoke too soon...Just received an error message from CRA that they "are unable to process your submission because it does not conform to our specifications. We strongly recommend that you validate all submissions with a validating parser before you file. Please validate your file, correct it and then resend your submission. For further details on filing electronically, please visit canada.ca/taxes-iref. For information or assistance creating an XML file call the Electronic Media Processing Unit at 1-800-665-5164, between 7:00 and 17:00 (EST)." Why did QBO change the process from previous year when it worked well?!?!? This is another example of changes that don't work!!! I'm so frustrated with QBO and their "improvements". I'm assuming you have no say in getting the appropriate QBO dept to call CRA to make sure their XML file conforms to CRA's specifications. What a mess at this critical time of year!!!

January 16, 2024

My file didn't save as an XML file... it saves as a Microsoft edge file UGHHHH

February 5, 2024

Good morning,

 

I am getting the same error as you. Did you get yours resolved?

February 5, 2024

Hello Sherry48. It's important you get the support you need. To get started, have you been in touch with our phone support team for further investigation? 

January 24, 2024

Hi

 

i have the same issue, i don't see option to download XMLS file for T4 summery, there is only VIEW option, can someone help please?

 

Thanks

 

January 24, 2024

Hello a-dav4,

 

Once you've created and filed T4 slips, they will be archived.  However, you can delete and recreate the forms, click on Review, then make sure to right click and and choose Save as, then choose .xml format, before marking them as Filed.   Here's how to re-create them;

 

1. Open Payroll, then Payroll tax

2. Select the Filings tab, then Archive

3. From the ▼ dropdown menu on T4 Employee slips, select Delete

This will remove the forms from the archive and let you to re-create the T4s. You're all set and able to Prepare and submit T4 slips and summary.

 

Let us know if this is helpful.  We'll be close by!