Under taxpayer relief provisions, the CRA has the discretion to cancel or waive penalties or interest. This applies when taxpayers are unable to meet their tax obligations due to circumstances beyond their control. 

The CRA can only grant relief within a 10 year span from your request date.

Interest

Only considered for interest on a balance owing for a tax year that accrued within 10 years prior to your request.

For example: Your request made in 2023 must relate to interest that accrued after 2013.

Penalties

Only considered if your request relates to a tax year within 10 years prior to your request.

For example: Your request made in 2023 must relate to a penalty for a tax year ending after 2013.

To make a request, fill out Form RC4288, Request for Taxpayer Relief – Cancel or Waive Penalties or Interest.

For details: Taxpayer relief provisions