What is Form T1235? A Guide for Canadian Charities and Nonprofits

Published June 18, 2025 By Dov Goldberg

If you are part of a charity or nonprofit organization in Canada, you might have heard about Form T1235. But what exactly is this form, and why is it important? This article will explain everything you need to know about Form T1235, how to notify the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) about changes in your charity’s directors, what the Registered Charity Information Return is, and how to contact the CRA’s Charities Directorate.

What is Form T1235?

Form T1235 is a form that Canadian registered charities and nonprofits must file every year with the CRA. Its full name is "Directors or Trustees on the Charity Information Return."

This form lists the names and information of the people who are responsible for running the charity, called directors or trustees. The CRA uses this information to keep track of who manages the charity and to make sure the charity follows Canadian laws.

Form T1235 is part of the charity’s annual reporting. The CRA requires it to maintain transparency and good governance in the charity sector.

Why is Form T1235 Important?

• Accountability: It shows the CRA who is responsible for managing the charity.
• Transparency: The public and government can see who controls the charity.
• Compliance: Helps ensure the charity is following the rules set by the CRA.

If the charity does not submit this form on time or gives incorrect information, it could face penalties or even lose its registered charity status.

How Do I Notify the CRA of a Change of Directors?

Sometimes, charities need to add new directors or remove current ones. If your charity makes changes like this, you must inform the CRA as soon as possible.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Use Form T1235: When you submit your annual Registered Charity Information Return (called Form T3010), you include the updated list of directors or trustees on Form T1235.
2. Notify Quickly: If the change happens during the year, you should notify the CRA right away by sending the updated Form T1235 or contacting the Charities Directorate.
3. Keep Records: Always keep a record of your charity’s directors and any changes made for your own files and for CRA inspections.

Updating the CRA about changes helps keep your charity in good standing and prevents delays in important communications.

What is the Registered Charity Information Return Form?

The Registered Charity Information Return is a detailed annual report that all registered charities in Canada must send to the CRA. The form is officially called T3010.

This return includes:

• Information about the charity’s activities and programs.
• Financial details like income and expenses.
• A list of current directors or trustees using Form T1235.
• Other important information to show the charity is following the law.

The CRA uses this return to check if the charity is operating properly and using its funds for charitable purposes. It also helps keep the public informed.

Failing to file the T3010 on time can result in penalties or losing the charity status. So, filing this return accurately and on time is very important.

How Do I Contact the Charities Directorate of the CRA?

If you have questions about Form T1235, changes to your charity’s directors, or anything else related to your charity, the Charities Directorate of the CRA is the right place to ask.

Here are ways to contact them:

• Phone: The line is open Monday to Friday during normal business hours.
• Mail: You can send letters or documents by mail. The CRA website has the correct mailing address.
• Online: Visit the CRA’s official website at Canada.ca/charities for forms, guides, and more information.
• Email: The CRA does not generally respond to charity questions by email for security reasons, but you can use online portals if available.

If you need help with your charity’s filings or want to make sure you are following all rules, contacting the Charities Directorate is a good start.

In summary, Form T1235 is an important part of keeping Canadian charities transparent and accountable. It lists the directors or trustees who run the charity and must be submitted every year with the charity’s T3010 return. If directors change, the CRA must be informed quickly. The Registered Charity Information Return (Form T3010) gives a full picture of the charity’s work and finances. If you ever have questions, the Charities Directorate of the CRA is available to help.

If you need help with your charity’s forms or want to make sure you are following the right steps, we are here to assist. With over 830 five-star Google reviews, we specialize in helping Canadian charities stay compliant. Contact us at:

Email: ask@charitylawgroup.ca
Phone: 416-488-5888

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