In 2020, CBSA launched the first phase of CARM, an online platform created for Canadian importers to simplify imports. This multi-year initiative is still in the works, with its first release phase completed in the second half of 2020. Indeed, release phase 0, the Accounts Receivable Ledger (ARL) has been up and running, facilitating payments to CBSA through online banking and electronic data interchange (EDI).
The ARL allows users to
- view all transactions made by one importer or broker in one account;
- make payments through online banking or EDI (exceptions may apply);
- reconcile all pending invoices at once, and
- generate e-statements via EDI.
Find the complete ARL processing timelines on CBSA’s website. Note that you may experience some delays with the daily notices.
The Client Portal
CARM’s client portal is an online self-service that will enable importers and brokers to
- create and manage their account;
- share access to their account with authorized service providers;
- get classifications and estimate duties and taxes through the Application Program Interface (API), and
- request rulings and track their status.
What you Need beforehand
To access the new client portal, a business number (BN) is required. You can obtain a BN with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Find out more on business numbers on the CRA website.
A Secure Portal
The client portal makes users sign up and sign in via GCKey or a sign-in partner with existing login credentials to ensure the protection of personal data. Thus, all transactions that will be completed on the portal will be safe.
Creating an Individual User Account
Individual user accounts must first be created. The person designated as the Business Account Manager (BAM) will need to create a business account and will need the following information: the company’s legal name and full address, the BN, sensitive information on past transactions (account balance, last transaction number, last payment amount).
Granting access to employees or service providers
A Delegation of Authority page will allow users to grant a certain level of access to an employee or a representative who already has a user account. Through their own user account, they will be able to directly request access to another account.
Using the Client Portal
Once your user account is created and your delegations are authorized through the portal, you’ll be able to view your transactions, estimate duties and taxes, request rulings, and use all the other tools at your disposal.
Release Phase 2: What we know so far
Phase 2 will take place in spring 2022. During that phase, the Client Portal will be improved and accessible to the entire trade community. It will also include functionalities such as
- updated release prior to payment options
- new electronic declarations (no more B3’s and B2’s)
- registration for a BN and enrolment to CBSA programs.
Find more information on release 2 of the CARM initiative on the CBSA website
Follow our blog and our LinkedIn page for more updates on CARM and the new CARM Client Portal.
Keywords: CBSA, CARM, duties and taxes, release date, use account, ARL, client portal, business number, phase 1
