NOA (Notice of Assessment)
After you file your T1 return, the CRA sends a Notice of Assessment confirming the details — your total income, deductions, tax credits, and resulting tax payable or refund. The NOA also reports your current RRSP contribution room and any carry-forward amounts.
The NOA is an important document: you need it to verify your RRSP room, apply for a mortgage (lenders often request it), and resolve any discrepancies with the CRA. If the CRA has adjusted your return (for example, disallowing a deduction), the changes will appear on the NOA with an explanation.
You can access your NOA online through CRA My Account, usually within 2 weeks of e-filing. If you disagree with an assessment, you have the right to file a formal objection within 90 days. Keep your NOAs for at least 6 years, as the CRA can reassess returns within that period.
Related Terms
T1 (General Income Tax Return)
The T1 is the standard personal income tax return that Canadian residents file annually with the CRA.
CRA (Canada Revenue Agency)
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is the federal body responsible for administering Canada's tax laws, collecting income taxes and GST/HST, and delivering benefit programs such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and the GST/HST credit.
RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan)
An RRSP is a government-registered account where contributions are tax-deductible and investments grow tax-free until withdrawal.