Dealing with the CRA Charities Directorate

When it comes to compliance with tax laws, many charities feel slightly in the dark. But an understanding of the CRA Charities Directorate and its regulations is of utmost importance if your charity is to avoid an audit, investigation, or even revocation of its charitable status. In this podcast, find out when a charity should communicate with the CRA Charities Directorate, best ways to contact the directorate, the role of the ombudsperson, and common mistakes when dealing with the directorate.

Dealing with the CRA Charities Directorate

Corporate vs. individual donations

On the surface, the difference between a corporate and an individual gift might seem quite negligible. However, it is important for charities to be aware of the differences between these two types of gifts so that they can ensure they are meeting all of their legal obligations. Find out more about tax credits vs. tax deductions, corporate donations as a business expense, and corporate sponsorships and charitable contributions in this podcast.

Corporate vs. individual donations

Wills and charitable bequests as a planned giving option

One of the most popular forms of a planned gift is a charitable bequest. But often charities don't fully understand the legalities involved in accepting a bequest. In this installment of our miniseries about the legal side of planned giving, Adam Aptowitzer, a lawyer with the Ottawa-based law firm Drache LLP, outlines what to expect in the way of taxes, what steps you should take if your charity is named in a will, and how to turn down a charitable bequest.

Wills and charitable bequests as a planned giving option (MP3)

Private securities as a planned giving option

Planned (or deferred) giving can be an excellent way to donate to charity, but not everyone understands the many options available to them...and that includes the charities! In this installment of our miniseries about the legal side of planned giving, Adam Aptowitzer, a lawyer with the Ottawa-based law firm Drache LLP, explains what a private security is, the benefits of donating securities to charity, and the tax pitfalls you should be aware of.

Private securities as a planned giving option (MP3)

RRSPs as a planned giving option

Planned (or deferred) giving can be an excellent way to donate to charity, but not everyone understands the many options available to them...and that includes the charities! In this installment of our miniseries about the legal side of planned giving, Adam Aptowitzer, a lawyer with the Ottawa-based law firm Drache LLP, weighs in on whether or not it is a good idea to donate your RRSPs to charity, the tax consequences upon doing so, and the complications a charity may face when accepting RRSPs.

RRSPs as a planned giving option (MP3)