Canadian Importers: Check Your Statements of Account!
Tax Development
Following an update to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) client portal on August 3, 2025, Ryan has detected significant posting errors in the August Statement of Account (SOA) for numerous clients, including amounts related to refunds (normally posted as credits) being shown as additional duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) payable (posted as debits).
While the most recent release was intended to improve importer visibility, correct certain terminology, allow temporary importations to be linked to security agreements, and upgrade the system’s backend software, the client portal update appears to have resulted in a system glitch impacting certain transactions posted to the SOA for an unknown number of importers.
The CBSA has been made aware of the issue and confirmed its existence. While a further update has been rolled out to address the problem going forward, the CBSA is currently working to correct impacted transactions.
All importers are strongly advised to carefully review their transaction history in the August SOA before making payment. Any issues identified should be brought to the attention of your broker or customs consultant.
The material presented in this communication is intended to provide general information only and should solely be seen as broad guidance and not directed to the particular facts or circumstances of any individual who may read this publication. No liability is accepted for acts or omissions taken in reliance upon the content of this piece. Before taking (or not taking) any action, readers should seek professional advice specific to their situation from Ryan, LLC or other tax professionals.