At Numberra, we know that receiving a letter from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) can feel a little like finding a "See Me After Class" note in your mailbox. Your heart skips a beat, your mind races, and suddenly you're imagining worst-case scenarios. But take a deep breath — it’s not always bad news, and even if it is, you’re not alone. We’re here to walk you through it.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on what to do if you get a letter from the CRA:
1. Open the Letter (Don't Ignore It!)
We get it — it’s tempting to push it aside and deal with it "later." But ignoring a CRA letter can make things worse. The sooner you open it, the sooner you’ll know exactly what you're dealing with. Sometimes it's just a notice or a routine request for more information.
2. Read Carefully
CRA letters can be a little "official" sounding, but don't let the language intimidate you. Look for these key pieces of information:
● Why they’re contacting you
● What they’re asking for
● Any deadlines you need to meet
It could be anything from a simple verification to a request for supporting documents, or (in more serious cases) a notice of reassessment.
3. Stay Calm and Gather Information
Once you understand what the CRA wants, gather all relevant documents. If they’re asking for proof of expenses, income slips, or other records, make a checklist of what you need.
Pro tip: Stay organized. Put everything in one folder, physical or digital, to make responding easier.
4. Call Your Accountant (That's Us!)
This is where we come in. At Numberra, helping clients navigate CRA communications is part of what we do every day. Give us a call or send us a copy of the letter. We'll:
● Explain exactly what’s going on
● Help you prepare any necessary documents
● Respond to the CRA on your behalf if needed
Having a professional on your side can save you time, stress, and even money.
5. Respond Promptly
Most CRA letters come with a deadline. Make sure you respond by the date listed, even if you just send a letter explaining you’re working on gathering the requested information. Timely communication shows good faith and can prevent penalties or escalation.
6. Learn and Adjust (If Needed)
If the CRA identifies an error, don't beat yourself up. Tax rules can be tricky! Take it as a learning opportunity. At Numberra, we’ll help you adjust your bookkeeping or filing practices going forward to make sure things stay on track.
Final Thoughts
Receiving a CRA letter doesn’t have to be scary. With the right support and a clear plan, you can tackle it head-on and move forward with confidence.
And remember: if that letter shows up, your first call should be to Numberra. We're here to make sure you're not handling it alone.
Need help with a CRA letter right now? Reach out to our team — we’re ready to help.
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