The Canada Revenue Agency is starting the process of the Canadian income tax returns at the middle of February. No matter how early you file your income tax return, you'll not be able to get information on the status of an until the middle of March. You should also wait until at least four weeks after you file your return before checking on the status of an income tax refund.



Processing Times for Tax Refunds.

The length of time it takes the CRA to process your income tax return and refund depends on how and when you file your return.

For income tax returns filed before April 15

Paper returns - four weeks

TELEFILE, NETFILE or EFILE returns - two weeks

For income tax returns filed after April 15

Paper returns - six weeks

TELEFILE, NETFILE or EFILE returns - two weeks

Who Has to File a Canadian Income Tax Return?

Most Canadian residents have to file a Canadian for the previous year.

To pay the accurate amount of income tax owed.

To pay back overpayment of benefits such as Employment Insurance.

To claim certain benefits, such as the GST/HST Credit or the Guaranteed Income Supplement under the Old Age Security Program.

Some international and non-resident individuals must also file a Canadian income tax return.