New Consultations: Modernizing Tax Rules for Charities

As the last remnants of a scrumptious Thanksgiving weekend subside, it is appropriate to take a look at the health and issues surrounding the charitable sector in Canada.  Serendipitously, the federal government is seeking your views on how the tax rules for registered charities and the Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) administration of these rules could be modernized.  A new consultation was launched on October 8 and here’s what the government wants to know, by December 3, 2026:

It’s a windfall worth billions!  From time to time, we hear of a lottery ticket worth millions of dollars which has gone unclaimed. But CRA says it is sitting on some 10.2 million cheques, some of them dating back years. The total value amount is a staggering $1.7 billion, Blog TO reports. So why hasn’t the government been more proactive about getting this money in the hands of Canadians?  Turns out an attempt was made.  But there is more: a big opportunity for tax and financial advisors to help Canadians recover what is rightfully theirs and reinvest it for their future.  Read on:

Today’s tax professionals are being asked to do more than file year-end returns—they’re being called on to interpret financial data, support decision-making, and advise business owners throughout the year. The DMA™ – Accounting Services Specialist Program from Knowledge Bureau responds to this need by providing the advanced skills and knowledge required to deliver practical, high-value accounting services to small business clients.

As the pace of change accelerates across tax, finance, and wealth management, it’s never been more important for professionals to stay ahead with meaningful, flexible, and forward-thinking continuing education. That’s why Knowledge Bureau is proud to introduce the Mastery Programs Division — a new curriculum stream that delivers both depth and specialization for practitioners ready to lead with purpose. Whether you are earning CE/CPD credits, looking to customize your learning journey, or aiming to achieve designation-level expertise, the Mastery Programs Division offers powerful options tailored to your goals.

As a proud Knowledge Bureau Designate, you've earned more than a credential—you’ve earned trust, credibility, and the distinction of being part of a nationally recognized network of leading professionals. To maintain your active status and continue enjoying the full benefits of your designation, it’s important to complete your annual re-licensing requirements by June 30. Not a Designate? Join this growing group of professional advisors in the tax, accounting and financial services. Learn more about the VIP Grad experience too!

In addition to reducing income tax through a non-refundable credit, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) serves as a gateway to a wide range of additional tax benefits and government programs. Eligibility for the DTC can unlock enhanced credits, financial supplements, and long-term savings opportunities that go well beyond the tax return. Understanding how the DTC connects to these broader supports is essential for maximizing financial stability—both for individuals living with disabilities and the family members who support them.  Unfortunately, many taxpayers miss this credit and their tax and financial advisors can certainly help when this happens.

The tax filing profile for the self employed is coming up fast:  June 16,2025.  These proprietors file T1 returns and report net income, which is subject to tax and also Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions upon filing.  There can also be losses which offset other income of the year.  Regardless, their tax and financial planning needs are unique, especially because they are at greater risk of audit by CRA and also of having too many eggs in one basket. . .their business.