Canadians Frustrated as CRA Tax Processing Delays Persist Amid Service Challenges

Canadians continue to experience delays and frustrations with the Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) tax services, particularly during the current tax season as the agency struggles with processing backlogs, long wait times, and service challenges across multiple fronts.

Many taxpayers have reported extended waits for tax return processing, refunds and responses to inquiries, with some still awaiting notice of assessment or refunds weeks beyond typical timelines. Service delays have also affected the CRA’s ability to answer callers promptly, prompting widespread frustration from individuals trying to reach the agency.

In response to mounting concerns, Finance and National Revenue Minister François-Philippe Champagne previously directed the CRA to implement a 100-day Service Improvement Plan to address unacceptable delays, strengthen services, and improve access for Canadians. The plan includes steps to increase call centre capacity, expand digital self-service options, and reduce backlogs in processing tax adjustments and other requests.

The CRA has acknowledged the service challenges and reported steps to enhance performance, including hiring more call centre staff and improving digital services to help taxpayers more easily access information without lengthy phone waits. However, many Canadians still face slower than expected turnaround on filing, benefit adjustments and refunds, causing financial and administrative stress.

Officials continue to stress the importance of electronic filing and direct deposit, which normally result in faster processing times than paper filings, but overall service demand during peak tax season remains high, contributing to ongoing delays.

Taxpayers are encouraged to monitor the status of their filings through the CRA’s online My Account portal and to ensure their submissions are complete to avoid further processing setbacks.