So, you filed your taxes… and then you realized something was wrong.
Maybe you forgot to include a T4 slip. Maybe you claimed the wrong amount for an RRSP contribution. Or maybe you left out a deduction that could’ve saved you hundreds of dollars.
First things first — don’t panic. Mistakes happen, and the good news is, you can fix them. In fact, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has a clear process for correcting tax returns.
Here’s how it works.
Step 1: Wait for Your Notice of Assessment
As tempting as it is to fix things right away, you need to wait until the CRA processes your return and sends you a Notice of Assessment.
This document confirms:
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That your return was received and processed
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Whether you’re getting a refund or owe taxes
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Any changes CRA made to your return
Once you have this notice, you can go ahead and request a change.
Step 2: Gather the Correct Information
Before you request any corrections, make sure you have the right numbers or documents in front of you. That might mean:
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A missing T4 or T5 slip
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An updated RRSP contribution receipt
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Proof of medical expenses, tuition, or donations
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Receipts for business or employment expenses
You don’t have to send the documents in right away, but if CRA asks for proof later, you’ll want to have it ready.
Step 3: Request a Change to Your Return
There are a few ways to correct a mistake on your return:
Option 1: Online Through CRA My Account
This is the easiest and fastest way.
Log in to CRA My Account, select “Change My Return,” and follow the steps. You can correct most line items directly online.
Option 2: Use CRA’s Form T1-ADJ (T1 Adjustment Request)
If you prefer a paper trail, you can fill out the T1-ADJ form and mail it to the CRA with a letter explaining the mistake and what needs to be corrected. Include any supporting documents if needed.
Step 4: Wait for a Response
Once you submit your correction, CRA will review it. This can take anywhere from a few days (if online) to several weeks (if by mail), depending on how busy they are and how complex the correction is.
If CRA agrees with your correction, they’ll send you a Notice of Reassessment, which updates your tax return and shows your new balance, refund, or tax owing.
Bonus: Fixing Multiple Years
You can fix returns from up to 10 years ago. So if you missed something in a previous year — like a deduction or a forgotten slip — it’s not too late to correct it and possibly get more money back.
Need Help? Our CPAs Can Fix It for You
If you’re not sure what to correct, or you just want a professional to take care of it:
We offer tax correction and amendment services with a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) for $150 CAD.
This includes:
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Reviewing your tax return for missed deductions or errors
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Submitting corrections securely to CRA
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Answering any follow-up questions from CRA
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Helping you avoid similar mistakes in the future with smart tax planning
We take the stress off your shoulders — and help you get it right.

