CRA can garnish wages without a court order, which surprises most people the first time it happens.

What this means for you

The CRA's internal procedures move on fixed schedules regardless of your personal circumstances. Requesting an extension, providing documentation early, or simply acknowledging receipt in writing are small steps that create a paper trail you may need later if the file escalates.

What you can do next

  • Confirm which tax year and account the notice actually concerns
  • Call the number on the notice itself, not a number found by searching online
  • Write down the name, date, and reference number for every call

Employers are legally required to comply with a garnishment notice the same pay cycle it arrives.