Thousands of Canadians may have unclaimed money waiting for them from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Whether it's a forgotten tax refund, a benefit payment, or a credit, the CRA holds millions of dollars in uncashed cheques. Here's how to check if you have funds waiting and how to claim them.
Why Does the CRA Owe Money?
The CRA issues cheques for tax refunds, benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credits, and other payments. However, cheques can go uncashed due to address changes, lost mail, or simple oversight. Over time, these unclaimed amounts add up.
How to Check for Unclaimed Cheques
To see if you have unclaimed money, follow these steps:
- Log into your CRA My Account – The easiest way is to access your online account through the CRA website. Look for the “Uncashed Cheques” section under “Related Services.”
- Check by phone – Call the CRA’s individual tax enquiries line at 1-800-959-8281. Have your Social Insurance Number (SIN) ready.
- Review your mail – The CRA may have sent notices about uncashed cheques. Ensure your address is up to date.
What to Do If You Find a Cheque
If you discover an uncashed cheque, you can request a reissue through your CRA My Account or by contacting the agency. The CRA typically reissues cheques that are less than six months old; older cheques may require additional verification.
Preventing Future Issues
To avoid missing payments, consider enrolling in direct deposit. This ensures funds are transferred directly to your bank account, eliminating the risk of lost or uncashed cheques. Update your personal information with the CRA promptly when you move.
Don't leave your money on the table. Checking for unclaimed CRA cheques takes only a few minutes and could put extra cash in your pocket.
