After you file, the CRA sends a Notice of Assessment (NOA). It is the CRA’s official summary of your return, and it is worth reading carefully.
What’s on the notice
- Account summary: whether you have a refund, a balance owing, or nothing owing.
- Tax assessment: the key lines from your return as the CRA assessed them, such as total income, taxable income and tax payable.
- Explanation of changes: if the CRA changed anything, it explains what and why here.
- RRSP deduction limit: how much you can contribute and deduct for the next year, plus any unused contributions.
- Other information: amounts carried forward, such as unused tuition, capital losses, or Home Buyers’ Plan repayments.
If the CRA changed your return
Compare the explanation with your own copy of the return. Common reasons are a missing slip, a credit the CRA wants proof of, or a typing error. If the CRA is right, pay any balance to stop interest. If you disagree, you can ask for a change, or file a formal notice of objection within the deadline.
Keep it safe
Landlords, banks and mortgage lenders often ask for your NOA, and you’ll need it for next year’s return. Download it from CRA My Account and keep at least the last six years.
Got a reassessment or a review letter?
A Notice of Reassessment or a review letter means the CRA wants to change or check something. Don’t ignore it: deadlines are short. See CRA letter help in Calgary.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to object to my Notice of Assessment?
For most individuals, you can file a notice of objection until the later of one year after your filing due date or 90 days after the date on the notice.
Where can I see my Notice of Assessment?
In CRA My Account, usually within about two weeks of filing electronically, or by mail if you haven’t signed up for online mail.
Why is my refund different from what I expected?
The CRA may have adjusted a credit or deduction, applied your refund to a debt, or used different slip amounts. The explanation section of the notice says what changed.
Need help? Garg Accounting is a CPA-led accounting and tax firm in Northeast Calgary (4310 104 Avenue NE, Unit 3230). Call 368-995-6000 or book an appointment.
