Uncashed CRA cheques seek owners

Approximately $1.4 billion in uncashed cheques is sitting in the Canada Revenue Agency’s coffers.

The government body says a total of 8.9 million refunds or benefits have not been claimed as of May.

The average amount of the cheques is $158, according to the release.

Electronic notices are sent periodically to some recipients, such as the Canada Child Benefit, to inform them of the status.

In addition, individuals can check their CRA file online under the « Services Related to » tab and see if they have any uncashed cheques that they don’t know about, some of which date back to 1998, or call 1-800-959-8281.

The Agency reminds taxpayers that issued cheques never expire and that in the case of a lost cheque, it is mandatory for taxpayers to request that a new one be forwarded to them.

The CRA adds that to avoid these inconveniences, Canadians are encouraged to sign up for direct deposit in order to receive any remittance in their bank account.