Issue

When uploading a T4 XML file to the CRA, users may encounter the following error message:

Invalid formatting detected in one or more fields.

This issue appears to be caused by invalid characters in certain fields. Despite the warning, the CRA may still accept the submission.


Possible Causes

The invalid formatting error can occur due to:

  • Special characters in employee names (e.g., - in hyphenated last names).
  • Special characters in addresses (e.g., # in unit numbers).
  • Extra blank spaces in company or employee details.
  • Uncommon symbols such as brackets ( ) in name fields.


Solution Options

Option 1: Remove Invalid Characters

Before generating the T4 XML file, check and remove or replace special characters in:

  1. Employee names: Avoid hyphens (-) or brackets ( )
  2. Addresses: Replace # with "Unit" or remove it
  3. Company names: Avoid symbols like &, %, $, @, #


Option 2: Proceed Despite the Warning

If the CRA system still allows submission, you may choose to proceed by:

  1. Checking the box that says:

    "I want to proceed without correcting these errors."

  2. Submitting the T4 XML file.
  3. Waiting for the confirmation email (typically within 10 seconds).


Many users report that despite the warning, the return is accepted successfully.