After you file your tax return, the CRA sends you a Notice of Assessment. For many newcomers, this is their first official document from the Canadian government — and it contains important information about your tax situation, refund, and future contribution room.
A Notice of Assessment (NOA) is the official confirmation from the Canada Revenue Agency that your tax return has been received and processed. It shows whether the CRA agrees with your return, calculates any refund or balance owing, and provides your RRSP and TFSA contribution room for the following year. It is one of the most important documents you receive as a taxpayer.
If you filed electronically using NETFILE, your NOA typically arrives within two weeks. If you filed by paper, it can take up to eight weeks. You can access your NOA online through My Account at canada.ca as soon as it is processed, even before the physical copy arrives by mail. Set up direct deposit to receive any refund within 5 business days of the NOA being issued.
The Assessment section shows whether the CRA changed anything from your filed return and why. The Refund or Balance Owing section shows whether you receive money back or owe an amount. The RRSP Deduction Limit shows your available contribution room for next year. The TFSA Contribution Room shows how much you can contribute to your Tax-Free Savings Account. Always compare these numbers to what you expected.
The CRA sometimes makes adjustments to your return — for example, if they have different T4 information from your employer, or if they disallow a deduction. Any changes are explained in the Explanation of Changes section of the NOA. Review these carefully. If you disagree with a change, you have 90 days from the date on the NOA to file a formal objection.
If you believe the CRA made an error on your NOA, you can file a Notice of Objection using Form T400A or through My Account online. You must file within 90 days of the NOA date. The CRA will review your objection and respond. If you remain unsatisfied, you can appeal to the Tax Court of Canada. Most straightforward errors are resolved at the objection stage without going to court.
Your Notice of Assessment is required to register for My CRA Account for the first time, to apply for certain loans where income verification is needed, and as proof of your tax status for various purposes. If you lose it, you can request a copy through My Account or by calling the CRA at 1-800-959-8281. Keep all NOAs for at least six years.
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