How Can I Check My Tax Refund Status in Canada?
The easiest place to check the progress of an individual tax return is CRA My Account. The CRA’s Progress tracker can show whether a T1 return has been received, is in progress or has been assessed.
A delay does not always mean there is a problem. Processing can take longer when a return needs additional review, includes unusual information or requires the CRA to request documents.
Check My Account first
Sign in to your CRA account and open My Account. The status tools can show the progress of recently filed returns and other requests. Once the return is assessed, the Notice of Assessment will show the final result.
Understand the difference between return status and refund status
A return can be received or assessed before the money reaches your bank account. Check your Notice of Assessment, direct-deposit information and account messages if the return shows as completed but the expected refund has not arrived.
How long does processing usually take?
The CRA publishes service standards rather than guaranteeing the same timeline for every return. For on-time electronic T1 returns, the CRA’s 2026–27 service standard is to issue a Notice of Assessment within two weeks in most applicable cases. Paper returns have a longer service standard.
Reasons a return can take longer
- The CRA needs more information.
- The return contains an amount selected for review.
- Identity or direct-deposit information needs attention.
- Several years were filed together.
- The return involves a deceased person, bankruptcy, international or other situations excluded from the standard service timeline.
FAQ
Can I check my refund without calling the CRA?
Yes. CRA My Account provides return and refund information online.
Does ‘assessed’ mean the refund is already in my bank?
Not necessarily. Assessment and payment are separate steps.
Should I file a second return if the first one is delayed?
No. Check the existing return status and respond to any CRA request rather than filing a duplicate return.
Call to action
If your return status does not match what you expected or the CRA has requested information, GROWS Financial can help you review the filing and supporting documents.
Related services: Personal Tax.
Related reading: How Do I Create a CRA Account and Use My Account?
Official sources for fact-checking
Last reviewed: October 21, 2026.