To qualify, your organization’s purposes must fall into one or more of these categories:

• Relief of poverty
• Advancement of education
• Advancement of religion
• Other purposes beneficial to the community

Eligible applicants include charitable organizations, public foundations, and private foundations. The organization must be a resident of Canada and not a for-profit entity.

You must submit Form T2050, Application to Register a Charity under the Income Tax Act, along with your governing documents (e.g., articles of incorporation, bylaws), a detailed description of your activities, and financial information.

Yes. Registered charities can issue official donation receipts for income tax purposes, which donors can use to claim charitable tax credits (individuals) or deductions (corporations).

Yes. Registered charities are exempt from paying income tax under the Income Tax Act.

Often, yes. Many grantmakers, foundations, and government programs only fund registered charities, increasing your organization’s funding opportunities.

Yes. Registered charities may be eligible to import certain goods free of customs duties and GST/HST under specific programs.

In some provinces and municipalities, registered charities may qualify for property tax rebates or exemptions and other local benefits.

Yes. Being a registered charity can boost your organization’s credibility with the public, donors, and funders due to the oversight and transparency required by CRA.

• Charities can issue tax receipts for donations; NFPs cannot.
• Both are tax-exempt, but NFPs may pay tax on property income or capital gains.
• Charities file Form T3010 annually; NFPs file a T2 return.
• Charities must register with CRA; NFPs do not require registration for tax purposes.
• Charities must have charitable purposes; NFPs can operate for broader, non-profit goals like recreation or civic improvement.

Yes. Registered charities are listed on the CRA’s Charities Listing, making it easier for donors and funders to find and verify your organization.

These are the official documents that establish your organization and outline how it operates—e.g., articles of incorporation, constitution, or trust deed.

It can take 6 to 12 months depending on the completeness of your application and CRA’s review process.

Registered charities must:

• File an annual T3010 Registered Charity Information Return
• Devote resources to charitable activities
• Maintain proper books and records
• Issue accurate donation receipts

Charities may engage in public policy dialogue and development activities (PPDDAs) related to their charitable purposes, but must remain non-partisan.

CRA will provide reasons for the denial, and you may submit a written objection or appeal to the Federal Court of Appeal.

We charge a flat fee

Visit the CRA’s official Charities and Giving webpage for detailed guidance and forms.