Your CRA Notice of Assessment (NOA) is one of the most important documents you'll receive after filing your tax return. The CRA typically issues your NOA within 4-6 weeks if you file online, or 8-10 weeks if you file by mail. This document shows your taxable income, the tax you owe or refund you're due, and your RRSP contribution room for the following year. Missing the deadline to review or act on your NOA can cost you money, so understanding these timelines is critical for smart tax planning. Your NOA is more than just confirmation of what you paid. It's the official record the CRA uses to calculate your eligibility for several tax-related benefits and credits throughout the year. Your NOA determines: Your RRSP contribution room for the next tax year Your eligibility for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Your GST/HST credit amount Your eligibility for other income-tested benefits The baseline for any future CRA audits or adjustments If you don't review your NOA carefully, you might miss important information or overlook errors that could affect your taxes for years to come. The CRA issues NOAs on a rolling basis throughout the year, not all at once.
Online filers typically receive their NOA within 4-6 weeks of submitting their return. Paper filers should allow 8-10 weeks. The CRA processes returns on a rolling basis, so the exact timing depends on when you file.
If the CRA made an error, contact them directly or file an adjustment request. If you disagree with their assessment, file a Notice of Objection within 90 days of the NOA date. Missing this deadline means you lose your right to dispute the assessment.
Yes. Log into CRA My Account and view your assessment details right away. You don't need to wait for the paper copy, and you'll see your information immediately after processing is complete.
RRSP room accumulates year after year and never expires. Any unused room carries forward indefinitely, allowing you to make catch-up contributions whenever you're ready. Your NOA shows your total available room to date.
Carefully compare the income figures on your NOA to what you reported on your tax return. The CRA may have adjusted your income based on T-slips, investment records, or other information they received. If you disagree, file a Notice of Objection within 90 days.