WHY IS IT TAKING SO LONG TO GET MY REFUND?

Many taxpayers make plans for their tax refunds long before the money is received. Most of us anticipate that our refunds will typically be deposited into our bank accounts 2-3 weeks after our return is efiled. For some taxpayers filing initiates a nasty cycle of information exchange with the CRA in an attempt to get their refunds.

The deduction of spousal support and carrying charges are just a few of the tax return claims that will trigger a “Pre-Assessment Request or Processing Review”. In other words, CRA will request information from the taxpayer before paying out the income tax refund. Many payors of spousal support claiming that deduction or recipients of child and/or spousal support claiming related legal fees (just a few common examples) will be subject to this arduous process.

It can take 2-3 months to receive a letter from CRA requesting additional information after filing the tax return. During this period, these taxpayers are patiently waiting and wondering why their refunds have not been deposited. Once the letter finally arrives taxpayers have 30 days to submit online (this option is usually not available with a Processing Review letter), to fax or to mail the information. Then the waiting begins………

It can take CRA (in my clients’ varied experiences), 2 – 8 months to process the additional information. It is critical to meet with a tax expert to ensure you have submitted ALL requested information so that the process does not enter a second wave of denial and resubmission.

If your claim can be supported, you will eventually receive your refund. Meet with an expert at Calgary’s Choice Tax Services, “we worry about your taxes so you don’t have to”!

Email: sharon@calgaryschoicetaxservices.com

Canada Revenue Agency Refund Information