Every year, millions of Canadians depend on the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to process tax refunds, benefit payments, and applications for credits. But in 2025, many taxpayers and beneficiaries have reported delays in receiving money from the CRA. These delays have left families stressed, especially those relying on timely refunds or monthly benefit top-ups to manage daily expenses.
While delays can be frustrating, understanding why they happen and how to track your status can reduce uncertainty. The CRA has outlined several reasons for slower processing in 2025 and provided tools for Canadians to monitor their applications.
Why Are CRA Payments Delayed in 2025?
Several factors contribute to delays this year:
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High application volumes: Tax season always brings a surge in returns and benefit applications, leading to backlogs.
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Security checks: With rising fraud risks, the CRA is running more verification steps before releasing refunds and benefits.
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Incomplete applications: Missing documents or incorrect details can cause individual delays.
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System updates: The CRA has been upgrading digital systems in 2025, occasionally slowing down processing times.
Together, these issues have extended the waiting period for many Canadians.
Average Processing Times
Normally, electronic tax returns are processed within 2 weeks, while paper returns can take up to 8 weeks. In 2025, however, some refunds are taking longer—up to 4 weeks electronically and 10 weeks on paper.
For benefit programs such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or the GST/HST Credit, new applications may also take several extra weeks compared to previous years.
How to Check Your Status
The CRA offers several ways to track the status of your payment or refund:
1. CRA My Account
The My Account portal is the fastest way to check updates. By logging in online, you can view:
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Whether your return has been received.
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The stage of processing.
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Payment dates for benefits or refunds.
2. CRA Mobile App
The MyCRA app provides similar updates directly on smartphones. It is especially useful for quick balance checks and benefit payment schedules.
3. Automated Phone Service
You can call CRA’s automated phone line to confirm whether a refund or payment has been issued.
4. CRA Call Centre
For more detailed inquiries, speaking to an agent can help. However, wait times are often long during peak tax season.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Late
If your refund or benefit payment has not arrived within the usual timeframe, here are steps to take:
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Check online to confirm whether processing is complete.
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Verify your banking details on file with the CRA. Outdated accounts are a common cause of delays.
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Ensure your return was filed correctly and no documents are missing.
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Contact the CRA directly if delays go beyond published timelines.
In some cases, the CRA may request additional documentation, such as proof of income, receipts, or ID verification, before releasing payments.
Impact on Canadians
Delays in CRA processing have real-life consequences. Many Canadians rely on tax refunds to pay off debt, cover rent, or fund education costs. Families depending on benefits such as the CCB or climate rebates face additional strain when payments arrive late.
The uncertainty can also lead to budgeting difficulties. Without knowing when money will arrive, households may struggle to manage bills and essentials.
Why Delays May Continue
Experts warn that delays could persist in 2025 due to:
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Increased fraud prevention checks.
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A higher number of benefit recipients, as more Canadians apply for income-tested programs.
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Ongoing system modernization at CRA.
While these steps improve long-term efficiency and security, they cause temporary slowdowns.
Tips to Avoid Future Delays
To minimise the risk of late payments, Canadians can:
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File taxes electronically for faster processing.
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Sign up for direct deposit, ensuring refunds and benefits go straight to bank accounts.
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Double-check forms and documents before submission.
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Keep personal details updated with CRA, including address and banking information.
By staying organised, taxpayers can avoid common issues that trigger delays.
Looking Ahead
The CRA has promised to reduce wait times by improving digital systems and increasing staffing during peak periods. However, beneficiaries are urged to remain patient and proactive in tracking their applications.
For many households, the key to navigating CRA delays is using the available tools—whether online, via mobile app, or phone—to stay updated on progress. While waiting can be frustrating, knowing your application is being processed provides some peace of mind.
FAQs
Why are CRA refunds delayed in 2025?
Because of higher application volumes, security checks, and system upgrades.
How long do refunds take in 2025?
Up to 4 weeks for electronic returns and 10 weeks for paper returns.
How can I check my payment status?
Through CRA My Account, MyCRA mobile app, automated phone line, or call centre.
What should I do if my payment is late?
Verify your banking details, check online, and contact CRA if delays exceed the normal timeframe.
How can I avoid future delays?
File electronically, use direct deposit, and keep your details up to date.
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