Charity and NFP Legislation

If you run a registered charity in Canada, you need to file a T3010 Registered Charity Information Return every year. This article will explain everything you need to know about filing your T3010, including who needs to file, when to file, and what happens if you don't file.

Who Needs to File?

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All Registered Charities

Every registered charity in Canada must file a T3010 return annually, regardless of its activity status.

Inactive Charities

Even if your charity was inactive (meaning it did not use any resources for charitable activities or purposes during the entire fiscal period), you still need to file a complete T3010 return. In Section C: Question C2, you must explain why your charity was inactive. Failure to file can lead to the loss of your charitable status.

Charities No Longer Operating

If your charity has stopped operating and you do not plan to resume activities, you still need to file a T3010 return. You may also request voluntary revocation of your registration, which means you won't have to file future T3010 returns. Another option is to find individuals looking to operate a charity and transfer the charity to them, provided of course that they share the vision of your mandate. We've assisted numerous charity transfers from exiting founders to new directors.  

When to File?

You must file your T3010 return no later than six months after the end of your fiscal period. Here's a handy guide for due dates based on your fiscal period end:

• January 31: Due by July 31
• February 28: Due by August 31
• March 31: Due by September 30
• April 30: Due by October 31
• May 31: Due by November 30
• June 30: Due by December 31
• July 31: Due by January 31
• August 31: Due by February 28
• September 30: Due by March 31
• October 31: Due by April 30
• November 30: Due by May 31
• December 31: Due by June 30

What Happens If You Don't File?

If you fail to file your T3010 return, your charity's status may be revoked. This means:

• You can't issue official donation receipts.
• Your charity will no longer be exempt from paying income tax.
• You must distribute all remaining assets to an eligible donee or pay a revocation tax equal to the full value of your assets.

How to File Your T3010 Return

You can file your T3010 return online or by mail.

Filing Online

Filing online through My Business Account (MyBA) is fast, easy, and secure. It helps you identify all necessary forms and documents. Follow these steps:

1. Register for My Business Account.
2. Ensure your contact information is up-to-date.
3. Complete and submit your T3010 return using MyBA.

Filing by Mail

1. Get the latest version of Form T3010.
2. Check to make sure your return is complete.
3. Mail your return to:
4. Charities Directorate
5. Canada Revenue Agency
6. 105-275 Pope Road
7. Summerside PE C1N 6E8

After You File

Once you file your T3010 return, you will receive a confirmation. The return will be available on the List of Charities and Certain Other Qualified Donees. If you notice any errors, you can amend your return by preparing an adjustment request using Form T1240.

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How to Amend Your Return

1. Download and complete Form T1240, Registered Charity Adjustment Request.
2. Ensure the form is signed by a representative of your charity.
3. Submit the adjustment request online through My Business Account or mail it to the Charities Directorate.

Other Considerations

Changing Fiscal Year-End

If your charity has changed its fiscal year-end, you need to file a separate return for the transition period.

Approval to Accumulate Funds

If your charity has approval to accumulate funds, report the amount on line 5500 and any accumulated funds spent on line 5510. As of January 1, 2023, the CRA no longer reviews or grants accumulation requests.

Filing a T3010 Registered Charity Information Return is crucial for maintaining your charity's status in Canada. Ensure you file on time, whether your charity is active or not, to avoid penalties and the potential loss of your charitable status. Use My Business Account for a streamlined filing process, and always keep your records up to date and accurate. For more detailed information, you can refer to Guide T4033, Completing the Registered Charity Information Return. If you have any questions, the Charities Directorate is available to assist you.

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