Do I need to report a change of address to receive tax refunds?

After moving from Canada, it is important to ensure that all financial and tax communications are sent to your current address. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) sends tax refunds, notices of assessment, requests for additional documents, and other official letters to your registered mailing address. If you do not update your information, you risk:

  • Not receiving your tax refund cheque, which may remain unclaimed at your old address.
  • Missing important deadlines for filing additional information or paying outstanding amounts, which could result in penalties and interest.
  • Losing your entitlement to GST/HST credits, Canada Child Benefits, and other benefits that depend on your current address.

This article explains step by step when and how to notify the CRA of a change of address and offers alternative ways to receive tax refunds and benefits.

1. Who must report and when

1.1 Residents leaving permanently

If you are becoming a non-resident of Canada, you must indicate your date of departure and new address for future correspondence on your last annual tax return (T1 General). This will give the CRA the green light to send your notices and cheques outside the country.

1.2 Residents temporarily leaving

If you remain a tax resident (e.g., on an academic or work contract) and plan to return, update your address immediately after moving. Even temporary changes affect GST/HST credit and Canada Child Benefit payments.

1.3 Non-residents reporting Canadian income

Non-residents who file a Section 216 or 217 return (rental, Canadian sources of income) must provide a foreign address at the time of filing so that the CRA knows where to send the Notice of Assessment and tax refund.

2. Methods for updating your address with the CRA

2.1 Through the My Account online service

The fastest way for residents and those who have previously opened an account.

  1. Log in to CRA.gc.ca → My Account.
  2. Select “Personal information” → ‘Address’ → “Change my mailing address.”
  3. Enter your new address and the effective date.
  4. Get an email confirmation and save it.

2.2 Phone call to CRA

Useful for those who do not have an online account or need assistance.

  • Call the CRA international line (numbers on the website).

  • Verify your SIN, date of birth, and security questions.

  • Provide your new address and date of move.

  • Write down the name of the operator and the time of the call.

2.3 Submitting form RC325

Retro method for paper applications, with processing times of up to 6 weeks.

  1. Download form RC325 (Address change request) from the CRA website or request it by mail.
  2. Fill in all fields (SIN, old and new addresses, signature).
  3. Send by registered mail to the appropriate CRA tax center.
  4. Keep the postmark.

3. Alternative ways to receive refunds and benefits

3.1 Direct Deposit

Eliminates the need to wait for a check in the mail. The CRA supports direct deposit even to some foreign bank accounts via SWIFT. To set this up:

  • In My Account, add your account details (BIC/SWIFT, IBAN, account number).
  • For banks without SWIFT, you can use the corporate numbers of fintech providers (Wise, Revolut Business).

3.2 Authorized representative (Authorization RC59)

If you are unable to receive correspondence yourself:

  • Complete the RC59 form, authorizing a relative or lawyer in Canada to communicate with the CRA.
  • Your representative will receive checks and notices and forward them to you without delay.

3.3 Mail forwarding and virtual mail services

  • Set up Canada Post mail forwarding to a P.O. Box or international address abstractor.
  • Use services such as VirtualPostMail or USA2Me, which receive your correspondence and scan the contents.

4. Updating your address for other CRA programs

4.1 GST/HST Credit

This credit is paid four times a year, based on your current address and tax return. An incorrect address will result in the termination of payments.

4.2 Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

Payment amounts depend on your income and family status. Any delay in updating your address will result in suspension of payments until the CRA verifies your information.

4.3 Old Age Security (OAS) Suspension Rules

OAS may be suspended if the CRA loses contact with the recipient. Timely address updates avoid automatic suspension.

5. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

  • Delaying updates until the time of filing — your address may change before your return is processed.

  • Not keeping receipts — without documentation, it is difficult to prove that the update was made on time.

  • Incomplete information — do not just indicate the new country; be sure to include the full postal code, region, and contact phone number.

  • Ignoring electronic notifications — electronic notifications are only reminders and do not replace the postal channel for checks.

6. Recommendations for action

  1. Update your address with the CRA immediately after moving, without waiting for the first tax transactions to be completed.
  2. Set up direct deposit to avoid postal delays and lost cheques.
  3. Send Form RC59 if you have a representative in Canada — this is a backup communication channel.
  4. Check the status of your update in My Account within a week of submitting your request.
  5. Keep proof of the changes in both digital and paper formats.

Conclusion

Notifying the CRA of a change of address is a simple but critical step in ensuring you continue to receive your tax refunds, benefits, and official communications after leaving Canada. Using online tools, direct deposit, and authorized representatives ensures timely access to your funds regardless of your location. Timely updates and multiple backup communication channels will help you avoid unnecessary delays, penalties, and fines.