Benefits being reviewed? Here’s what you need to know

How will I know my benefits are being reviewed?

You’ll get a letter and questionnaire from us. This letter will ask you to provide information so we can check to make sure the benefits or credits you’re receiving are correct.

Now what?

If you receive a letter telling you that your benefits are being reviewed, don’t panic. You’re not alone. We send approximately 350,000 of these letters every year to make sure Canadians are receiving the benefits and credits they’re entitled to.

In most cases, it’s simply a routine check to make sure the information we have is correct and up to date.

With the information you provide, we can check to see if you’re receiving the benefits and credits you should be receiving. The review helps make sure the benefits being paid are accurate and that our tax and benefit system is looking out for all Canadians.

What’s in the letter?

The letter or questionnaire may ask for documents to confirm that the information in our records is right and up to date. For example, we may ask you to validate your marital status, where you live, and who cares for your children.

This information can change as life events occur, and may affect whether you’re eligible to receive benefits and credits, and in what amount.

This information is important for figuring out both your federal and provincial/territorial benefits and credits.

Keep calm and respond

It’s important that you reply and send all the information requested as soon as possible. This will help the CRA review your file quickly and easily. If you need help, we’ll work with you to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Usually, you have to respond within 45 calendar days. If you receive a letter and questionnaire from us, we’ll tell you how to send us your documents. Make sure you include all the information we ask for, and that the copies of your documents are clear and easy to read. You can send us the documents online using My Account or by mail or fax to the address or fax number provided in your letter.

Keep your information up to date with the CRA

To make sure you’re getting the right amount of benefits and credits, you must keep your personal information updated with the CRA. This includes your marital status, the number of children in your care, and your address.

We’re here to help!

If you can’t get the documents we’re asking for or if you need more time to reply, it’s important that you call the number provided in your letter. We can help you if you have any questions or suggest other documents that you can send instead, and we can give you more time to respond if you need it. If you don’t reply, your benefits will stop and you may be asked to repay benefits that were previously sent to you.

If you have concerns about the number provided in your letter, you can call 1-800-959-8281 to verify its authenticity.

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