CRA Processing Times: Tax Returns, Adjustments and Benefits
The CRA aims to process 95% of online tax returns within 4 weeks and paper returns within 8 weeks. Complex adjustment requests can take up to 35 weeks, and taxpayer relief requests average about 16 months. Check the official page for live times.
| Request | CRA target |
|---|---|
| Tax return filed online | 95% within 4 weeks |
| Paper tax return | 95% within 8 weeks |
| Complex adjustment request | Up to 35 weeks |
| Taxpayer relief request | About 16 months on average |
| Canada child benefit application, Disability Tax Credit, objections | Shown by the CRA's online tool for your request |
Return targets apply to returns received on or before the filing due date. For adjustments, the CRA recommends sending requests online for faster service.
Related
CRA Phone Number and Contact Numbers (2026): Every Line and Hours
The main CRA phone number is 1-800-959-8281 for personal tax and CRA account questions. For benefits like the Canada child benefit call 1-800-387-1193, and for businesses 1-800-959-5525. All three are open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 8 pm Eastern time, and closed on weekends and public holidays.
How to Check Your CRA Tax Refund Status
Check your return status in CRA My Account (available even with limited access), or call the automated line at 1-800-959-8281, option 4, any day from 6 am to 3 am Eastern time. Refunds are issued after your return is processed: usually within 4 weeks if you filed online.
CRA Notice of Assessment: Where to Find It and When It Arrives
Your notice of assessment is available in CRA My Account once your return is processed. The CRA aims to process 95% of returns filed online within 4 weeks and paper returns within 8 weeks, when filed by the due date. You can view it even with limited access.
Sources
North Help Desk is an independent guide, not a government website. Rules, amounts and phone hours can change; always confirm on the official page before you act. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.