Consequences of Non-Compliance: What Every Canadian Charity Needs to Know

The episode explains that registered charities in Canada must meet specific obligations to maintain their status, as failing to do so can lead to serious repercussions.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) uses a graduated scale of enforcement, starting with education and potentially progressing to compliance agreements.

More severe non-compliance can result in sanctions, such as financial penalties or the suspension of the right to issue donation receipts.

The most extreme consequence is the revocation of charitable status, which leads to the loss of tax benefits, required asset dispersal, and significant damage to public perception.

The discussion emphasizes that proactive compliance through accurate filings, adherence to rules, proper record-keeping, and good governance is essential, and highlights the valuable role a charity lawyer plays in navigating these complexities and ensuring compliance.