How long does a tax refund take in Canada?
Quick summary
The CRA's refund page says electronic returns take within 2 weeks. Its processing times FAQ says it aims to process 95% of electronic returns within 4 weeks and paper returns within 8 weeks. Those times apply to returns received by the filing due date. For the notice that comes with your refund, read thenotice of assessment guide.
Checked November 3, 2026. Main source: CRA: Tax refunds (modified Oct. 22, 2026). See all 3 sources.
What the CRA says about timing
| Source | Electronic | Paper |
|---|---|---|
| CRA tax refunds page | Within 2 weeks | No fixed time; check the processing times page |
| CRA processing times FAQ | 95% within 4 weeks | 95% within 8 weeks |
Both pages say the times apply only if the CRA receives your return on or before the filing due date. Non-resident and international filers can take up to 16 weeks.
Why a refund can take longer
- The CRA picks your return for a detailed review.
- You filed more than one return, a bankruptcy return or a return for someone who died.
- The CRA asks for more information or documents.
- The return has errors or missing information.
How to check your status
- Sign in to your CRA account for the fastest update.
- Or call 1-800-959-8281. The automated line runs 6 am to 3 am Eastern. Live agents are available 8 am to 8 pm Eastern, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.
- If more than 14 days have passed since you filed, check the status in My Account. If more than 12 weeks have passed, check again.
Direct deposit or cheque
Your refund goes to the bank account the CRA has on file when you file. If direct deposit is not set up before you file, you get a cheque mailed to the address on file. If a cheque is returned because the address is out of date, later payments stop until you update it.
When the CRA keeps part of a refund
The CRA may hold all or part of a refund to cover debts, such as amounts you owe, certain federal, provincial or territorial debts, or unpaid GST/HST or payroll amounts for a sole proprietorship or partnership. Refunds of $2 or less are generally not issued.
Interest on a refund
For a 2025 overpayment, the CRA may pay compound daily interest. It starts from the latest of May 30, 2026, the 30th day after you filed, or the day you overpaid. The rate for October 1 to December 31, 2026 is 5% for individuals.
Questions people ask
How long does a CRA refund take?
The CRA says within 2 weeks for electronic returns. Its processing times FAQ aims to process 95% of electronic returns within 4 weeks and paper returns within 8 weeks.
Why is my tax refund late?
A detailed review, several returns filed, missing information, or a request for documents can all slow it down.
Can the CRA keep my refund?
Yes. It can hold all or part of a refund to cover debts you owe.