This episode helps Ontario nonprofits understand the key differences between incorporating under Ontario's Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA) and the federal Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act (CNCA).

It clarifies that neither option is universally better and the best choice depends on the organization's specific needs and operational plans.

It highlights distinctions regarding director requirements, membership voting rights, financial standards, filing obligations, and public information disclosure.

The discussion also confirms that organizations must choose one structure, though switching is possible, and that ONCA-incorporated nonprofits can still operate and fundraise across Canada while adhering to local regulations.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

This episode offers a guide to effective fundraising strategies specifically tailored for new charities operating in Canada.

It provides practical advice on various approaches, including online campaigns, events, monthly giving programs, grant applications, social media engagement, and corporate partnerships.

The discussion also emphasizes the importance of clearly defining a charity's mission and vision and the value of donor recognition and appreciation.

Overall, this resource helps guide new charities to secure funding and build lasting relationships with supporters.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

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.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

B&H Charity Accounts Firm
https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/

This episode outlines several key scenarios where fundraising activities by registered charities in Canada can be deemed unacceptable by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

This includes situations where fundraising becomes a primary focus instead of supporting the charitable mission, results in excessive private benefits, or involves activities that are illegal or contrary to public policy.

Additionally, fundraising is considered unacceptable if it is deceptive in any way or if it utilizes an unrelated business not permitted for charities.

Engaging in these practices can jeopardize a charity's registered status.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

B&H Charity Accounts Firm
https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/

This episode explains the key differences between non-profit and charitable organizations in Canada, emphasizing that charitable organizations can issue tax receipts, unlike non-profits.

It highlights that incorporation is not required for either but is strongly recommended for legal and name protection benefits.

The discussion also outlines how a non-profit obtains charitable status by applying to the CRA and provides examples of each type of organization.

Furthermore, it details the general requirements for incorporating and the importance of a Nuans report in the process.

Finally, it notes that non-profit organizations are generally exempt from income tax.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

B&H Charity Accounts Firm
https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/

This episode outlines the process for Canadian registered charities to change their fiscal year-end, emphasizing that approval from the Charities Directorate is required.

It details two main methods for requesting this change: online via the My Business Account (MyBA) portal or by submitting a formal letter, specifying the necessary information for each.

The episode also explains the concept of a transition period created by the change, requiring a separate information return, and highlights the importance of acting promptly and ensuring the charity's governing documents are updated to reflect the new date.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

This episode discusses the Canada Revenue Agency's (CRA) Report on the Charities Program for 2023 to 2024, detailing the CRA's Charities Directorate's activities related to registered charities and other qualified donees in Canada.

It outlines the directorate's mission, vision, and progress in upholding the integrity of the sector and supporting organizations in complying with tax legislation.

The report includes statistical data on registered charities, application processes, compliance efforts including audits and non-audit interventions, and information on revocations and revocation tax.

It also highlights program policy updates, stakeholder engagement through various committees, and the CRA's efforts to serve the sector and the public through various channels like telephone and written enquiries, webinars, and online resources.

If you are looking to register a nonprofit or charity and need assistance with ensuring you, as the founder, retain control, call us at 416-488-5888 or email at ask@charitylawgroup.ca, and our experienced charity lawyers can assist with bylaw and related resolutions formation and revisions, giving you absolute control.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

This episode outlines how Canadian charities can legally engage in political advocacy while maintaining their registered status.

It clarifies what political activities are allowed and prohibited, emphasizing the requirement to remain non-partisan.

The episode highlights how recent amendments to the Income Tax Act have removed the 10% spending limit on public policy dialogue and development activities, allowing for more freedom in advocacy as long as it supports the charity's mission.

Best practices for compliant advocacy are also provided, including staying focused on the mission, keeping records, and focusing on education rather than campaigning.

If you are looking to register a nonprofit or charity and need assistance with ensuring you, as the founder, retain control, call us at 416-488-5888 or email at ask@charitylawgroup.ca, and our experienced charity lawyers can assist with bylaw and related resolutions formation and revisions, giving you absolute control.

This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping firm serving Canadian charities in Ontario with all their financial and tax filing needs. Hat tip to our friends at OrgHub.ca, a new, innovative software platform that provides not-for-profits and charities across Canada with a solid foundation for incorporation and streamlined corporate governance.

B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation
https://www.charitylawgroup.ca/
P: 416-488-5888

B&H Charity Accounts Group
https://www.charityaccountingfirm.ca/
P: 289-301-8883