Did you know that many Canadians have unclaimed CRA cheques waiting for them? These cheques could be payments for tax refunds, benefits, or other credits that were never cashed. The good news is that unclaimed CRA cheques never expire, and it’s easier than you might think to claim them. This article will guide you through how to find out if you have any unclaimed CRA cheques and how to get them.
What Are Unclaimed CRA Cheques?
Unclaimed CRA cheques are payments issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) that haven’t been cashed or deposited. These can include tax refunds, benefit payments, or other government credits. If you’ve lost a cheque, had it destroyed, or simply never received it, you can still claim it. The CRA has made it easier to track and reclaim these funds.
How to Find Out If You Have Unclaimed CRA Cheques
To find out if you have any unclaimed CRA cheques, you can use the CRA’s online services or contact them directly:
- Check “My Account”: Log in to the CRA’s “My Account” portal. Under the “Overview” section, look for the “Uncashed Cheques” tab. This will show you if you have any cheques that haven’t been cashed.
- Contact the CRA: If you prefer, you can also contact the CRA directly by phone or visit a CRA office for assistance. They can help you determine if you have any unclaimed cheques and guide you on the next steps.
How to Get Your Unclaimed CRA Cheques
Once you’ve confirmed that you have unclaimed CRA cheques, here’s how to retrieve them:
- Submit Your Information: You’ll need to provide certain details to prove your identity and claim your cheque. This may include filling out forms or submitting documents.
- Log In to “My Account”: If you haven’t already, create an account on the CRA’s “My Account for Individuals” portal. From there, you can access the uncashed cheques section and follow the instructions.
- Fill Out PWGSC 535 Form: If you no longer have the original cheque, you’ll need to complete the PWGSC 535 form. This form helps the CRA verify your information and issue a replacement cheque.
- Mail or Submit the Documents: You can either mail your completed form and any required documents to the Sudbury Tax Centre or submit them online through your CRA account.
Who Can Claim Unclaimed CRA Cheques?
To claim unclaimed CRA cheques, you must be a Canadian taxpayer. This means you’ve filed your taxes and are eligible for benefits or refunds. If you haven’t paid your taxes, you may have trouble claiming your cheques. Ensure that your tax returns and payments are up to date to avoid any issues.
The Growing Amount of Unclaimed CRA Cheques
According to the CRA, there are more than 1,700 unclaimed cheques, with a total of around $1 billion waiting to be claimed. For example, in 2020 alone, $183 million worth of cheques were cashed. The CRA continues to encourage Canadians to check their accounts and claim any outstanding payments.
If you’re unsure about how to proceed, you can always visit your nearest CRA office, call the CRA helpline, or access your “My Account” portal for more information.
Unclaimed CRA cheques are easy to track and claim, whether they’re from a lost, destroyed, or forgotten payment. The CRA offers several ways to help you retrieve your money, and with the amount of unclaimed funds growing, it’s a good idea to check if you have any payments waiting. By keeping your tax information up to date and using CRA’s online tools, you can make sure you receive all the benefits and payments you’re entitled to.
1. What are unclaimed CRA cheques?
Unclaimed CRA cheques are payments issued by the Canada Revenue Agency that haven’t been cashed or deposited, like tax refunds or benefit payments.
2. How can I find out if I have unclaimed CRA cheques?
You can check the CRA’s “My Account” portal under the “Uncashed Cheques” section, or you can contact the CRA directly.
3. How do I claim my unclaimed CRA cheques?
You need to provide your details, log in to the CRA’s portal, and possibly fill out forms to retrieve your unclaimed cheque.
4. Who is eligible to claim unclaimed CRA cheques?
Any Canadian taxpayer who has filed their taxes and is eligible for refunds or benefits can claim unclaimed CRA cheques.
5. What should I do if I don’t have the original cheque?
You can fill out the PWGSC 535 form to request a replacement cheque from the CRA.