Sammy
Millions of Canadians may be unaware that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is holding onto money that rightfully belongs to them.
As of March 31, 2025, the CRA has been sitting on over 10 million uncashed cheques, totaling a staggering $1.7 billion. Here’s everything you need to know about how to check, claim, and receive what’s yours.
Why Are These Cheques Still Unclaimed?
Each year, the CRA issues millions of payments to Canadians, including tax refunds and government benefits. However, not all recipients successfully receive or cash their cheques.
According to CRA officials, many payments remain uncashed due to common reasons such as:
- Recipients moving and not updating their address
- Misplaced or lost cheques
- People simply forgetting to cash them
These uncashed payments accumulate over time, but the good news is — they don’t expire.
Uncashed Cheques by the Numbers
As of March 2025, here’s a breakdown of the uncashed CRA cheques:
| Cheque Value Range | Number of Uncashed Cheques |
|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | 10,036,240 |
| $1,000 to under $100,000 | 189,840 |
| $100,000 or more | 160 |
| Total Estimated Value | $1.7 Billion |
How to Check If You Have Unclaimed CRA Money
Unlike the tax filing process, checking for unclaimed CRA payments is simple and can be done online.
In February 2020, CRA introduced a feature within the My Account portal that lets individuals see whether they have any uncashed government-issued cheques.
- These payments can go as far back as 1998
- Government cheques do not expire — they can be reissued upon request
To check:
- Visit CRA My Account
- Navigate to the “Uncashed Cheques” section
- Look for any outstanding payments
How to Reclaim Your CRA Cheques
If your CRA account shows that you have uncashed cheques, you’ll need to request replacements using the PWGSC 535 – Undertaking and Indemnity form.
Steps to Request a Replacement Cheque
- Log into your CRA My Account
- Download and complete the PWGSC 535 form under the “Uncashed Cheques” section
- Fill in all required information, including:
- Your name and address
- Signature and date
- Witness information (non-family member must also sign and date the form)
- Submit the completed form:
- Online, or
- By mail to the appropriate CRA address
Important: Incomplete or incorrect forms will be rejected. CRA will send you a new form along with instructions on how to correct the mistakes.
Processing Time
Due to high demand, requests may take 8–10 weeks to be fully processed.
Millions Already Reclaimed – Don’t Miss Out
Thanks to this digital initiative, Canadians have reclaimed approximately:
- 4.5 million cheques
- $1.6 billion in total (as of March 2025)
To prevent missed payments in the future, the CRA strongly recommends enrolling in direct deposit.
“Canadians can ensure they never miss a payment from us again by registering for direct deposit,” said a CRA spokesperson. “It’s the fastest and safest way to receive your money.”
With over $1.7 billion in unclaimed cheques, the CRA is urging Canadians to take a few minutes to check their My Account portal.
Reclaiming your money is easier than ever, and ensuring your direct deposit is set up could save you from ever missing a payment again. Don’t leave money on the table — check now and claim what’s rightfully yours.
FAQs
How far back can uncashed CRA cheques go?
CRA cheques can date back as far as 1998, and they never expire.
What if I don’t have a CRA My Account?
You can create one on the CRA website or contact their general inquiries line at 1-800-959-8281 for assistance.
Can I receive the payment via direct deposit?
Yes. After requesting a cheque replacement, you can sign up for direct deposit to receive future payments faster.