A letter from the CRA looks serious even when it is routine. This list covers the common ones and what usually follows. Look for the heading at the top of your letter, then read the row that matches.
What does your letter mean?
| The letter says | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Notice of assessment | The CRA finished processing your return and shows your refund or balance owing | Check it against your return and keep it. It also shows your RRSP room |
| Notice of reassessment | The CRA changed something on a return it already assessed, or you asked for a change | Read the explanation. If you disagree, you have a limited time to object |
| Processing review or request for documents | The CRA wants proof of a claim, such as receipts or a rent statement | Send the documents by the deadline in the letter, using My Account if you can |
| Income verification or matching | A slip or amount on your return did not match what the CRA received | Compare your slips, then reply or correct the return |
| Statement of account or arrears notice | You owe a balance, with interest that keeps growing | Pay it, or call to set up a payment arrangement before it escalates |
| Instalment reminder | The CRA expects quarterly instalments based on your past years | Check the amounts and the dates. See the instalments calculator |
| Notice of objection received or confirmed | The CRA has your objection and an appeals officer will look at it | Keep the reference number and wait for the decision |
| Benefits review, for example for a child benefit | The CRA is checking your family or income details | Send the requested proof, and keep your marital status up to date |
How long do you have to object?
For most individuals the deadline is 90 days from the date on the notice, or one year after the filing due date, whichever is later. Check the letter, because rules differ for businesses and for some taxes.
How can you tell a real letter from a scam?
- The CRA does not ask you to pay with gift cards or cryptocurrency.
- A threat to arrest you or deport you over tax is a scam.
- When in doubt, do not use the link or the phone number in the message. Sign in to your own CRA account, or find the number on canada.ca.
Read more in our guide to dealing with the CRA. If your case is complicated, consider a licensed professional, and see how to choose a tax preparer.
Where does this information come from?
It comes from the public pages of the Canada Revenue Agency and other open sources, checked in October 2026. This is an independent information site: we provide no services, we do not represent the CRA or any organization, and we do not guarantee that anything here is accurate or current. We accept no liability for decisions based on it. Check the official source before you rely on it. See the full disclaimer.
Not sure the letter is real? See how to spot a CRA scam.