Ottawa wants charities’ advice on modernizing federal rules

People who help run charities can suggest changes that benefit their organizations.

Federal officials have begun a consultation process on how to modernize the framework governing registered charities. They’re taking recommendations until Dec. 3.

Non-profit agencies contributed about $244 billion to Canada’s gross domestic product in 2024, or “about 8.4 per cent of Canada’s overall GDP,” a statement from the Finance Department said.

More than 86,000 registered charities “relieve poverty and support vulnerable populations, advance education and religion and carry out a wide range of activities that strengthen communities,” the statement said.

Officials want opinions on how “the legislative and administrative framework can better support” them, eliminate unnecessary administrative work, adapt to technological advances “and strengthen transparency and public trust,” it explained.

Organization executives should check the applicable consultation document on the Finance website before offering advice about updating federal tax rules for charities and the Canada Revenue Agency’s administration of them, “while protecting the integrity of charitable donation tax incentives,” it said.

People should focus on the registration process, digital service delivery, audit and compliance activities and the revocation and objections processes for charities.