Charity Registrations Proposed for Revocation

Summary#

The Canada Revenue Agency has published a notice that it intends to revoke the registration of many charities because they did not meet filing requirements under the Income Tax Act. The proposed revocations are effective on the date the notice appeared in the Canada Gazette: January 20, 2024.

What it does#

• Lists the charities (with business numbers, names and addresses) that have been sent a notice of intention to revoke for failing to file required returns.
• States the revocations are being proposed under the Income Tax Act.
• Says the revocation is effective on the publication date in the Canada Gazette (January 20, 2024).
• Identifies Sharmila Khare, Director General, Charities Directorate, as the signatory of the notice.

Who's affected#

• The organizations named in the Gazette notice — many are local churches, community groups, arts societies, foundations and small charities.
• Donors to those organizations and the people or communities that rely on their services may be affected if registration is revoked.
• The notice itself does not list what will happen next for each charity (for example, whether any will appeal), so some uncertainty remains.

Why it matters#

• Losing registered status can change a charity’s legal and tax standing. The Gazette notice confirms the CRA is enforcing filing rules.
• Donors may need to check the status of an organization before relying on tax receipts.
• Community services run by small local charities could be disrupted if those groups lose their registration and related benefits.