How to search the CRA database for over $1.4 billion in forgotten refunds.
Official search instructions below.The "Billion Dollar" List
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that approximately $1.4 billion in cheques remains uncashed. These funds belong to millions of taxpayers who simply never received or lost their cheques.
Where Does This Money Come From?
Money usually ends up on the "uncashed" list because the taxpayer moved without updating their address, or the cheque was lost/destroyed in the mail. Common sources include:
- Tax Refunds: Overpayments from previous income tax returns.
- GST/HST Credits: Quarterly payments that were missed.
- Child Benefits (CCB): Monthly payments for families.
- Provincial Benefits: Like the Ontario Trillium Benefit or Alberta Child and Family Benefit.
How to Find & Claim Your Money (Step-by-Step)
You do not need to pay a third-party service to find this money. You can do it for free in 3 minutes:
- Step 1: Log in to your CRA My Account (using a Sign-In Partner or CRA ID).
- Step 2: On the "Overview" page, look for the "Related services" section on the right side.
- Step 3: Click on the link titled "Uncashed cheques".
- Step 4: If you have money waiting, it will be listed there. Click the relevant form to request a duplicate payment.
How long does it take to get the money?
Once you submit the request form online, the CRA typically verifies and issues the payment within 2 to 6 weeks. If you have Direct Deposit set up, it will be faster.
Can I cash a 10-year-old cheque?
No. Canadian government cheques generally cannot be cashed at a bank if they are more than 6 months old. You must request a re-issuance through the CRA portal.
What if I don't have an online account?
If you cannot access My Account online, you can call the CRA individual enquiries line at 1-800-959-8281. An agent can check the database for you after verifying your identity.