CRA “In Progress” vs “Processed” vs “Completed” — What Each Status Means (2026)

CRA’s status words look simple, but they can mean slightly different things depending on whether you’re looking at the Progress Tracker or a return status screen. This guide breaks down what each one means in plain language — and what you should do next.

Quick summary (30 seconds)

• In progress (Progress Tracker): CRA has your file and it’s currently being reviewed.
• Processed (often on return-status screens): CRA has processed the return; in some cases it may show “Processed – No notice”.
• Completed (Progress Tracker): CRA has finished processing — now check the result (assessment/notice, account updates, or a decision letter).

1) First: where are you seeing this status?

CRA uses status labels in more than one place, which is why it can feel confusing. The two most common screens are:

1. Progress Tracker (My Account / My Business Account)
2. Return status pages (especially for business returns)

A helpful way to think about it: Progress Tracker is the “timeline view”, while a return status screen is the “result label”.

2) “In progress” vs “Processed” vs “Completed” — the real meaning

Status	Where you’ll usually see it	What it means	What you should do
In progress	Progress Tracker	CRA has received your return/request and it’s being reviewed.	Wait, but monitor your account for any request for information.
Completed	Progress Tracker	CRA has completed the processing step.	Check the outcome (assessment/notice, updated balance, messages).
Processed (e.g., “Processed – No notice”)	Return status screens (commonly business)	The return has been processed in CRA systems; in some cases a notice may not be mailed.	Review your assessment details online and confirm balances/refunds.

CRA also uses related wording such as “Received – Processing in progress”, “Assessed”, and “Processed – No notice” depending on the return type and account view. (That’s why two people can see slightly different words for the same situation.)

3) If it says “In progress”: what’s happening right now?

“In progress” simply means CRA is working on your file. It doesn’t automatically mean you’re approved, reassessed, or paid — it’s a live processing stage.

What to do while it’s “In progress”

• Don’t re-submit the same request unless CRA tells you to (duplicates can slow processing).
• Watch for a request for documents (that’s when you must act quickly).
• Keep proof ready (receipts, slips, letters, supporting documents).

4) If it says “Processed”: are you safe to stop checking?

“Processed” typically means the return has moved through CRA’s system. But it doesn’t always mean everything is “done and settled” in the way most people assume.

What to check next

• Look for your Notice of Assessment (NOA) or updated account details online.
• If you expected a refund, verify the amount and payment method (direct deposit vs cheque).
• If the numbers don’t match your expectations, review whether CRA adjusted something.

5) If it says “Completed”: confirm the outcome (don’t assume)

“Completed” means CRA finished processing — but the result could be one of several outcomes: an assessment, a reassessment, a benefit decision, a request for follow-up, or a change to your balance.

Quick reminder: NOA vs NOR

In CRA wording, a Notice of Assessment (NOA) summarises the result after CRA assesses your return, while a Notice of Reassessment (NOR) is issued if CRA later changes an assessed return.

6) What about the “Target completion date”?

CRA’s target completion date is an estimate based on their service standards and current workload. It’s useful for planning — but it’s not a promise.

If your target date passes

1. Check CRA’s published processing times for the specific item.
2. Review your account for any “information requested” message.
3. Then contact CRA with your submission date and reference details.

FAQ

Does “Completed” mean my refund is deposited?

Not always. “Completed” means processing is finished — you still need to check the actual outcome in your account.

Why do I see “Processed – No notice”?

In some return-status screens, CRA uses “Processed – No notice” to indicate the return was processed and a notice wasn’t mailed. You may need to view assessment details online instead.

Should I call CRA if my file is “In progress” for weeks?

First check standard processing times and whether CRA requested additional information in your account. If you’re past typical timelines, it’s reasonable to contact CRA with your submission details.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not tax advice. For complex situations, consider professional guidance.

Last updated: 2026