When Wildfires Strike: How the CRA Can Support You Through a Crisis

Canada’s wildfire season in 2025 is unfolding as one of the most severe on record. As of early August, over 4,250 wildfires have burned through more than 7.25 million hectares. That’s well over the 10-year annual average of 2 million hectares.  This is also not isolated to a few provinces. Every province is battling stubborn fires that continue to spread and threaten even urban communities. Smoke has been felt continent-wide, darkening skies as far away as Europe.

Beyond the emotional stress, there can be real financial and administrative challenges when handling taxes or obtaining records amid evacuation or displacement. Thankfully, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recognizes the hardships disaster-affected Canadians face—and offers meaningful relief when crisis strikes.

Relief when you need more time

If you’ve been unable to file your tax return or make a payment because of wildfire disruptions, the CRA encourages you to reach out to them. Delays, evacuations, or interrupted services are all valid reasons to ask for more time to remit. You may also request a cancellation or waiving of penalties and interest under the CRA’s Taxpayer Relief provisions. CRA defines "extraordinary circumstances"—such as wildfires—as grounds for potential relief, though each request is reviewed case-by-case.

Issues with receiving benefit cheques?

Evacuation and postal delays can leave you without benefits or credits that you rely on. If your payment hasn’t arrived because of wildfire-related mail disruptions, call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281. In many cases, they can issue a duplicate payment or help you set up safer delivery methods like direct deposit and CRA “My Account” alerts. 

Lost or damaged records or documents?

Wildfires can destroy vital tax documents—T-slips, receipts, and more. Don’t panic: the CRA may be able to provide copies, easing the burden of starting from scratch. If your records were destroyed, call:

• Individuals: 1-800-959-8281
• Businesses: 1-800-959-5525
• Charities: 1-800-267-2384

Understanding disaster-related financial assistance

If you received government emergency assistance—like for shelter, clothing, or meals—good news: such payments are generally not taxable. The CRA treats them as non-taxable and they won't be included as part of your income. Similarly, compensation for losses or damage to your home typically has no tax consequences. 

For businesses that receive government assistance tied to disaster recovery expenses, the assistance either reduces your deductible expenses or is included in income—but typically results in no net income change. And, GST/HST usually doesn’t apply, provided there’s no supply linked to the assistance. 

If you’re navigating tax or benefit concerns amid wildfire stress, the CRA is offering help and relaxed tax rules. You may not need to fight penalties, late-filing fees, or missing paperwork. Whether you’re unable to file or pay, missing benefits, or have lost documents—calling the CRA and explaining your situation is one step you can take. Similarly, emergency payments meant to help rebuild or sustain you won’t hit you with tax bills.

When calling, be ready to explain your situation clearly: evacuation, displacement, mail delays, or record loss. 

The CRA’s disaster provisions are designed with compassion: to ease burdens so you can focus on what matters most—keeping yourself and your loved ones safe and supported.