CRA & Service Canada
Benefit entitlement letter
Official correspondence confirming you are approved for a benefit and showing payment amount or start date.
Benefits glossary
Canadian benefits glossary
Government benefits, tax, disability and drug-coverage terms explained in plain language.
Definitions are educational. Official program rules still apply.
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CRA My Account
CRA's secure online portal to view tax slips, benefit payments, NOA, and update direct deposit and marital status.
CRA & Service Canada
Direct deposit
Electronic payment of benefits into your bank account instead of by cheque.
Most federal benefits require or strongly encourage direct deposit for faster payment.
CRA & Service Canada
My Service Canada AccountMSCA
Service Canada's online portal for CPP, OAS, EI, and related benefits applications and payment information.
CRA & Service Canada
Notice of Assessment (NOA)
CRA's summary of your processed tax return showing income, credits, refund, or balance owing.
Many benefit applications and reassessments use NOA figures as proof of income.
CRA & Service Canada
T1 General (tax return)
The standard Canadian personal income tax return filed with CRA each year.
Most income-tested benefits use T1 information, errors on the return affect benefit amounts.
Related tools and guides
Use these MyEligible tools to explore programs after you understand a term.
Sources and methodology
Definitions explain common government and program language in plain words. They are starting points for understanding, not legal advice or official eligibility decisions. Confirm important details with the official program, CRA, Service Canada, or a qualified professional.
Glossary reviewed September 13, 2026