Benefits being reviewed?

If you receive a letter from CRA that the agency is reviewing your benefits, it could be a routine check.

As per CRA, it sends about 350,000 such letters every year to “make sure Canadians are receiving the benefits and credits they’re entitled to.”

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.

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.

Taxpayers usually have 45 calendar days to respond, and CRA says it will tell taxpayers how to send documents in its letter.

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.

If you don’t reply, CRA says that “your benefits will stop and you may be asked to repay benefits that were previously sent to you.”