Canadian Charities Offered Support On Tax Compliance

by Mike Godfrey, Tax-News.com, Washington

29 October 2009

Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Canadian Minister of National Revenue and Minister of State for Agriculture and Agri-Food, is inviting registered charities and not-for profit organizations that serve the charitable sector to submit project proposals as part of the government’s Charities Partnership and Outreach Program.

"The Charities Partnership and Outreach Program is an important part of our efforts to raise awareness among charitable organizations of the laws that apply to donations, which enhances the partnership between the charitable sector and the government," explained Minister Blackburn. "Projects funded under this program assist charities in complying with their Income Tax Act obligations."

During the course of fiscal year 2010–2011 (April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011), CAD3m (USD2.8m) in contribution funding will be available, to support sector education and training projects related to compliance. For 2010-2011, only one-year projects will be considered for funding up to a maximum of CAD500,000.

The CRA, in consultation with members of the voluntary sector and federal departments, will recommend for funding suitable projects related to one or more of the following priorities:

• Educating charities on compliant fundraising practices;
• Educating charities and/or donors about tax shelter donation arrangements and false receipting; and
• Promoting transparency and accountability in the charitable sector.

The Charities Partnership and Outreach Program is a contribution funding program designed to support compliance-related education and training projects for charities.

The deadline for applications is November 30, 2009.

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