Enabling Third-Party Access in California

To allow Kintsugi to file and remit sales tax on your behalf in California, we must be granted Third-Party Access to your California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) account.

Here are the steps that you need to take.

Step 1: Share your sales tax account number

Kintsugi needs your sales tax account number to request third-party access. Here’s how to find it:

1. Log in to your CDTFA account.

2. Upon login, scroll down to the “Accounts” section.

3. Look for the “Sales and Use Tax” account type and you will see your Account ID (or account number) next to it.

Step 2: Kintsugi has submitted a third-party access request

Kintsugi will initiate a third-party online access to your account.

Note: Once Kintsugi initiates the third-party access request, you will receive a security code. Please share it with us upon receipt so we can continue the access setup.

Step 3: Look for the security code

California uses a Security Code system to verify this authorization. This security measure ensures only authorized representatives can view your tax data or file returns. Unlike some other states, where you simply provide a login, California requires this extra step of verification to link our professional filing account to your business record.

The security code is generated specifically when Kintsugi requests access to your account.  There are at least three ways to obtain the code.

1. The Standard Process: Wait for the Mail

Once Kintsugi initiates the access request in the CDTFA system, the state automatically triggers a physical letter to be sent to your business address on file.

• Delivery Time: 7–10 business days.

• What to look for: A letter from the CDTFA containing a Security Code (sometimes referred to as an "Access Code").

• What to do: Once you receive the letter, please send a copy of the code or the code itself to your Kintsugi Onboarding Manager.

2. The Fast Track: Call the CDTFA

If you don't want to wait for the physical letter or need to expedite your onboarding, you can receive the code by phone.

• Phone Number: 1-800-400-7115

• Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (PT)

• The Request: Ask the agent for the "Security Code for a pending Third-Party Access request."

• Verification: You will likely need to provide your Federal EIN, your CDTFA Account Number, and, if available, your business address or the amount from a recent tax filing to verify your identity.

3. The Digital Option: Approve Online

If you already have your own login for the CDTFA Online Services, you can bypass the code entirely by approving Kintsugi’s request directly in your dashboard.

1. Log in to your CDTFA account.

2. From the “I Want To” section, select “Respond to Third-party Access Request.”

3. Approve the request by filling in the Security Code and your Account Number.

You may also check Enabling Secondary Logon in California.

Need Your Login Credentials?

Not sure where to locate your California tax credentials? See the California Credentials for Importing Registration guide to find each required field.

Need Help?

For further concerns, we're always here to help. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please reach out to us using the chat bubble in the bottom right corner.