How to Check Your Tax Refund Status

How to Check Your Refund Status

Method 1: CRA My Account (Best)

1. Log in to CRA My Account
2. Look for "Refund status" on dashboard
3. See processing stage and expected date

Method 2: MyCRA Mobile App

• Download MyCRA app
• Log in with same credentials
• Check refund status on the go

Method 3: Phone (Automated)

• Call: 1-800-959-1956
• Have SIN and date of birth ready
• Automated system provides status

Refund Status Meanings

Processing Times by Filing Method

NETFILE (Electronic)

• With Direct Deposit: 8-14 business days
• With Cheque: 4-6 weeks

Paper Return (Mailed)

• Processing time: 8-12 weeks
• During peak season: May take longer

Common Reasons for Delays

Review Selected

• CRA may review returns randomly
• May request supporting documents
• Can add 4-8 weeks to processing

Missing Information

• Errors on your return
• Missing slips or schedules
• SIN doesn't match records

Outstanding Debts

• Previous tax balance owing
• Student loans in default
• Family support payment arrears
• EI or benefit overpayments

First-Time Filers

• Identity verification may be needed
• Can take longer than established filers

What If Your Refund Is Different?

Your Notice of Assessment (NOA) will explain any differences:

• Mathematical corrections
• Disallowed deductions or credits
• Applied to outstanding balance
• Provincial changes

Disagreeing with Assessment

• Review NOA carefully
• File objection within 90 days if needed
• Request adjustment if you made an error

Speed Up Your Refund

Before Filing

• Set up CRA My Account
• Register direct deposit
• Ensure address is current

When Filing

• Use NETFILE (electronic filing)
• File early (before peak season)
• Double-check all information
• Include all required slips

After Filing

• Don't file duplicate returns
• Respond quickly to CRA requests
• Keep records organized

Refund Offset

CRA may apply your refund to debts:

• Prior year taxes owing
• GST/HST credits overpayment
• Canada Child Benefit overpayment
• Student loan in collections
• Provincial debts

Your NOA will show any amounts offset.

When to Contact CRA

• NETFILE: After 14 business days with no update
• Paper: After 10 weeks with no update
• Status hasn't changed for 4+ weeks
• Requested documents already sent

Contact Information

• Phone: 1-800-959-8281
• Hours: Mon-Fri, varies by season
• Have ready: SIN, DOB, address, return info