How to Check Your Tax Return Status in Canada

After you file your tax return with the CRA, it is natural to wonder when your refund will arrive or whether your return has been processed. Knowing how to check your tax return status can save you time and give you peace of mind.

This guide walks you through the different ways to check your Canadian tax return status, what the different statuses mean, and how long you should expect to wait.

When Can You Start Checking Your Tax Return Status?

Once you file your return, the CRA needs some time to receive and process it before a status is available. Here is what to expect:

• NETFILE (online filing): Status usually appears within 2 weeks of filing
• Paper return (mailed): May take up to 8 weeks before a status is visible
• Non-resident returns: Can take up to 16 weeks

How to Check Your Tax Return Status in Canada

1. CRA My Account (Online)

The fastest and most convenient way to check your tax return status is through the CRA’s online portal.

• Go to canada.ca and click on CRA My Account
• Sign in using your CRA user ID and password, or through a Sign-In Partner (such as your bank)
• Navigate to the Tax Returns section
• Your most recently filed return status will be displayed

CRA My Account also allows you to view your Notice of Assessment, RRSP contribution room, benefit payment dates, and more.

2. MyCRA Mobile App

The CRA also has a mobile app called MyCRA, available for iOS and Android. Through the app, you can:

• Check the status of your tax return
• View your Notice of Assessment
• Check your benefit and credit payment information
• Update your direct deposit details

3. CRA’s Automated Phone Service (TIPS Line)

If you prefer checking by phone, call the CRA’s Tax Information Phone Service (TIPS) at 1-800-267-6999. This automated system operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can provide:

• The date your return was received by the CRA
• The date it was assessed
• Your refund amount and expected deposit or cheque date

You will need your Social Insurance Number (SIN), date of birth, and the total income reported on your return to verify your identity.

How to Check CRA Status Online: Step-by-Step

1. Visit canada.ca/my-cra-account
2. Sign in using CRA login credentials or a Sign-In Partner
3. Click View Returns or go to Tax Returns
4. Select the tax year you want to check
5. View the processing status displayed

What the Different Return Statuses Mean

• Return Received: The CRA has received your tax return and it is in queue for processing
• Return Being Processed: Your return is actively being reviewed by the CRA
• Return Assessed: Processing is complete. Your Notice of Assessment has been issued and your refund (if applicable) is on its way

Why Is Your Return Taking So Long?

Most returns filed electronically are processed within 2 weeks. However, your return may take longer if:

• It was filed on paper
• It was selected for a review or audit
• There is missing or inconsistent information
• You owe a balance and the CRA is applying it to other debts
• It was filed during a peak period (April tax season)

Tips to Speed Up Your Refund

• File electronically using NETFILE-certified software for faster processing
• Set up direct deposit with the CRA so your refund is deposited directly to your bank account — typically within 5 business days of assessment
• File early to avoid the end-of-season backlog
• Double-check your return before filing to avoid errors that could trigger a review

Table of Summary

Here is the blog information in 6 easy rows for quick understanding:

Section	Easy Information
1. Topic	The blog explains how to check your tax return status in Canada after filing with the CRA.
2. When Status Appears	NETFILE (online): ~2 weeks; paper return: up to 8 weeks; non-resident/complex returns: up to 16 weeks.
3. Ways to Check	1) CRA My Account (online), 2) MyCRA mobile app, 3) CRA TIPS automated phone line (1-800-267-6999).
4. Online Step-by-Step	Sign in to CRA My Account → View Returns → Select tax year → See status (Received, Being Processed, Assessed).
5. Reasons for Delays	Paper filing, review or audit, missing/inconsistent info, owing a balance applied to debts, or peak filing season.
6. Tips to Speed Refund	File electronically, set up direct deposit, file early, double-check your return to avoid errors, and consult Taxccount for support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take the CRA to process a tax return?

Electronic returns are typically processed within 2 weeks. Paper returns can take up to 8 weeks. Non-resident and certain complex returns may take longer.

How do I know if CRA received my tax return?

If you filed online using NETFILE, you should receive a confirmation number immediately. You can also check CRA My Account to see if the return status shows as Return Received.

What does it mean when my return is being reviewed?

A review does not mean you did anything wrong. The CRA may request supporting documents or verify specific claims. You will receive a letter outlining what is needed and a deadline to respond.

Can I check my refund status if I do not have CRA My Account?

Yes. You can call the TIPS automated line at 1-800-267-6999 with your SIN and tax year details to check your refund status without logging in online.

What is a Notice of Assessment?

A Notice of Assessment (NOA) is a document issued by the CRA after processing your return. It confirms the income, credits, and deductions accepted, shows any refund or balance owing, and outlines your RRSP contribution room for the next year.

Need Help with Your Canadian Tax Return?

If your return has been delayed, reviewed, or you have questions about your Notice of Assessment, Taxccount can help. Our experienced tax professionals work with Canadians to resolve CRA issues quickly and accurately.

Taxccount helps individuals, self-employed professionals, and corporations stay compliant with CRA rules while reducing tax stress. Book a free consultation today.

Contact Taxccount now and get expert help with your Canadian tax return.

This is general information only and not professional advice. Consult a professional before acting.