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