Cancel or waive penalties and interest at the CRA
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Cancel or waive penalties and interest at the CRA
Processing delays
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is currently experiencing a significant increase in the number of taxpayer relief requests received. As a result, processing times are longer than usual.
While the current average processing time is approximately 16 months, your request may take less or more time depending on factors such as:
- the complexity of the request;
- the number of tax years involved;
- the number of tax programs affected; and
- the volume and completeness of the supporting information and documentation provided.
We will contact you if additional information is required.
If you submitted your request online, you can check its status using the CRA Progress Tracker through My Account, My Business Account, or Represent a Client. Individuals who submitted their request by mail can also use the CRA Progress Tracker through My Account or Represent a Client to check the status of their request.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to process your request as quickly as possible.
For more information please about our current processing timeframe, please visit Check CRA processing times.
When events beyond your control prevent you from meeting your tax obligations, the CRA may grant relief of penalties and interest.
Try our new self-evaluation and learning tool (SELT), to determine if you should apply for relief from penalties and interest.
Sections
- Who can apply
- Situations that may qualify for relief and options for similar situations
- How to apply
- When and how to make a request to cancel or waive penalties or interest
- After you apply
- When you can expect a decision, receiving a credit or refund if approved, what recourse options are available if denied
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2026-09-25