Tax Schemes and Illegal Tax Shelters Red Flags

A tax scheme refers to plans and arrangements designed to mislead taxpayers by promising to reduce their owed taxes, often through exaggerated deductions or the assurance of tax-free income. These schemes may also employ various tactics to persuade individuals to pay less than their actual tax liability.

Individuals or entities known as "promoters" actively promote or sell these schemes, intentionally making false claims to aid their clients in evading taxes while benefiting financially themselves.

To stay informed about tax matters, it is recommended to regularly visit the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website.

Recognizing a tax scheme:

• Positioning as financial products or business opportunities.
• Advertisement through channels like the internet, social media, newspapers, or household flyers.
• Presentation or sales events such as information sessions, paid seminars, or webinars.
• Assurances of substantial tax savings, often promising significant returns on small investments.
• A portion of the expected tax refund is designated as the promoter's fee.
• They appear excessively advantageous, possibly "too good to be true."
• Promoters of tax schemes often come across as personable and adept at presenting their case, going to great lengths to create an appearance of legitimacy.

A typical tax promoter may exhibit the following traits:

• Charismatic and personable.
• Delivering polished presentations.
• Can be an individual or a group.
• Receives a commission or payment from the client and/or their investment.
• May falsely claim endorsement by the CRA.
• Provides endorsements from professionals.
• Discourages seeking a second opinion.
• Discourages communication with the CRA.

If approached by a tax preparer offering unusually large refunds, exercise caution. It's crucial not to assume that such schemes and promised tax benefits are lawful under the Income Tax Act. If suspicions arise, seek a second opinion.

It is essential to remember that, even if someone else prepares your tax return, you are ultimately responsible for the accuracy of the information provided.

Consequences of involvement in tax schemes:

The CRA actively investigates and prosecutes those who promote and encourage tax evasion. Convictions for tax evasion may result in repayment of owed taxes, interest, civil penalties, fines up to 200% of the evaded taxes, and potential jail time.
To maintain tax fairness, the CRA shares cases of individuals, corporations, and trusts convicted of tax evasion publicly.

Protecting yourself:

• Seek professional, independent advice.
• Get a second opinion if a deal seems too good to be true.
• Be informed about who you deal with during tax time.
• Beware of preparers offering false tax claims.
• Don't hesitate to ask questions if you don't understand your return.
• Ensure you receive a copy of your return for your records.
• Never sign a blank tax form.

The CRA encourages individuals who have participated in tax schemes to come forward and correct their tax affairs through the Voluntary Disclosures Program. This may lead to reduced penalties and relief from prosecution.

Reporting tax cheating:

If you suspect someone of tax evasion, you can report it to the CRA. Steps will be taken to protect your identity, and you may provide information anonymously. International tax cheating reports should be submitted to the Offshore Tax Informant Program.

Case studies of tax schemes:
The CRA provides real-life case studies illustrating schemes set up to evade taxes, highlighting the financial consequences for both organizers and participants.

Government crackdown:
The Government of Canada has significantly invested in the CRA to combat these schemes, allowing for an expansion of the Promoter Compliance Centre. This initiative aims to identify, deter, and dismantle tax avoidance schemes orchestrated by promoters through increased audits, business intelligence, communication, and resources to educate Canadians about such schemes.