With the tax deadline only days away, more than 35,000 CRA employees went on strike as of April 19, 2023.

With the labour disruption, certain services may be delayed or unavailable but CRA will not be shutting down. That means you may experience longer wait times when contacting the CRA call centres, and the processing of some tax returns and benefits (especially for those who file by paper) might be delayed.

All computer systems will continue to operate but may experience periodic interruptions, the best way to ensure your taxes process in a timely manner, is to file them electronically.  We E File all tax returns that are eligible to file electronically.

During the strike, you still need to file your taxes. It’s wise to file your taxes on time, especially if you owe taxes to avoid penalties for late filing.

Tax returns are still due on May 1, 2023, even though the CRA is on strike there is no extension to the filing deadline.  Late filing penalties will be applied to any balance owing if filed after this date. 

For self-employed individuals, you and your spouse (common-law) have until June 15th to file with no late filing penalties. 

If you have tax owings, the balance is due by May 1, 2023.  The balance due will be subject to interest but no penalties if filed by the June 15 deadline. 

The short answer: you could experience delays.

If you need to contact the CRA to ask questions and receive assistance with filing your tax return, anticipate delays in reaching a live person over the phone. 

With CRA picket lines in place, you could also wait longer for your tax return to be reviewed. To track the status of your return, you can log into your CRA MyAccount.

CRA call centres will experience the greatest impact with millions of Canadians trying to complete their tax returns by the deadline. You will  experience increased wait times (currently 3 - 4 hours).

The issuing of tax refunds may be impacted while the CRA is on strike, particularly if you are receiving it by cheque.  The safest and quickest way to access your refund is to set up direct deposit through your CRA MyAccount or when filing your taxes with us. 

However, we offer instant refunds on all qualifying refunds if you wish to avoid any delays.

The issuing of tax refunds may be impacted while the CRA is on strike, particularly if you are receiving it by cheque.  The safest and quickest way to access your refund is to set up direct deposit through your CRA MyAccount or when filing your taxes with us. 

However, we offer instant refunds on all qualifying refunds if you wish to avoid any delays.