CRA Holding $1.7 Billion In Unclaimed Cheques: As of March 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is sitting on a mind-blowing $1.7 billion in uncashed cheques – that’s over 10 million payments! This stash includes everything from old tax refunds to benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and GST/HST credits. If you’ve ever moved, misplaced a cheque, or simply overlooked a small payment, you might have money waiting for you. Let’s break it down – easy peasy.
CRA Holding $1.7 Billion In Unclaimed Cheques
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Unclaimed Amount | $1.7 billion |
| Number of Uncashed Cheques | Over 10 million |
| Average Cheque Value | Approximately $150 |
| Oldest Uncashed Cheques | Dating back to 1998 |
| How to Check | Log into CRA My Account and navigate to “Uncashed Cheques” |
| Processing Time for Claims | 8–10 weeks |
| Prevent Future Missed Payments | Sign up for direct deposit and keep contact information up to date |
There’s $1.7 billion just sitting there waiting for folks to claim it. Why not check if some of it belongs to you? It’s simple to log into your CRA account, check for uncashed cheques, and submit a claim. And while you’re at it, switch to direct deposit and update your info so you don’t miss out next time. Your future self will thank you.
Why Are There So Many Uncashed CRA Cheques?
So why’s there such a huge pile of uncashed cheques? Well, life happens. People move and forget to update their addresses. Cheques get lost, damaged, or simply set aside because they’re for small amounts. And let’s be honest, we’ve all been guilty of letting mail stack up, right?
Here’s the kicker – CRA-issued cheques never expire. That means even if the payment dates back to 1998, it’s still good to go. If you’ve got a claim, you can still get your hands on that money.
How to Check for Uncashed CRA Cheques
The CRA made it easier than ever to check if you’ve got any unclaimed money sitting there. Here’s how:
- Log into your CRA My Account: If you don’t already have one, you can register online – you’ll need your SIN, date of birth, postal code, and info from your tax return.
- Find the “Uncashed Cheques” section: Once logged in, check the “Overview” page and look for the “Uncashed cheques” link.
- Review your uncashed payments: This section will show you any cheques you’ve got outstanding – and they can go way back.
How to Claim Your Uncashed Cheques
Found a cheque you never cashed? Here’s what to do next:
- Download the pre-filled Form PWGSC 535: You’ll find this “Undertaking and Indemnity” form in the uncashed cheques section of your CRA My Account.
- Fill it out:
- Complete all required fields.
- Sign and date the form.
- Have a witness (non-family) sign and provide their info too.
- Submit the form:
- Online: Use the “Submit documents” feature in your CRA account.
- By mail: Send it to:
- Sudbury Tax Centre
- PO Box 20000, Station A
- Sudbury ON P3A 5C2
Make sure each uncashed cheque has its own form to keep things smooth. If your form’s incomplete, it might delay processing.
Processing Time
Don’t expect your cash overnight. It typically takes about 8 to 10 weeks to process replacement cheques. If you’re set up with direct deposit, the funds will go straight into your bank account. If not, they’ll mail you a new cheque to the address they have on file.
How to Prevent Future Missed Payments
Let’s make sure this doesn’t happen again:
- Sign up for direct deposit: This gets your refunds, benefits, and credits directly into your bank account – fast and secure.
- Keep your contact info updated: Whether it’s your address or bank details, make sure CRA has your latest info.
New Additions for an Even Stronger Guide
Here’s what we’re adding to make this guide even more helpful:
Step-by-Step Visual Walkthrough
Including screenshots or infographics showing exactly where to click in your CRA My Account to check uncashed cheques. Visuals make it easier, especially for folks not so tech-savvy.
Real-Life Scenarios
- Example 1: Mary from Toronto forgot to cash her GST/HST credit from 2010. She logged in, filled out the form, and got her cheque reissued in 9 weeks.
- Example 2: John from Calgary updated his banking info but didn’t sign up for direct deposit. After logging in, he found three old cheques, claimed them, and switched to direct deposit to avoid delays.
User Testimonials
Adding a section with real Canadians’ stories about finding uncashed cheques can inspire readers to check their own accounts.
Updates on CRA Initiatives
A latest update section on CRA’s efforts to reach Canadians with uncashed cheques through email, mail notifications, or text reminders.
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FAQs About CRA Holding $1.7 Billion In Unclaimed Cheques
Q: What types of payments could be uncashed?
A: Tax refunds, GST/HST credits, Canada Child Benefit (CCB), and other CRA-administered benefits.
Q: Is there a deadline to claim these uncashed cheques?
A: Nope! CRA cheques don’t expire, so even if it’s from the 90s, you’re good.
Q: Can someone else claim my cheque?
A: Only in specific legal situations, like if you’ve authorized someone officially. Otherwise, it’s gotta be you.
