Handling donations between Canada and the US

Canada and the United States share the longest undefended border in the world and we consider ourselves to be good neighbours, but when it comes to cross-border donations things can get a bit tricky.

Operating a charity internationally

For charities with international causes, there are rules and procedures to follow. Adam explains what Canadian charities must have in place before they can operate overseas and what they can and can’t do once they are there.

All Abroad! The ins and outs of operating internationally

Many people and organizations that learned to “do good” in Canada now want to help causes overseas. Though the impetus is pure and the intentions are good, there is some information one must know before trying to raise funds for charitable causes beyond the Great White North.

Understanding the disbursement quota

Adam discusses the rules of thumb for the disbursement quota, what happens when there is a disbursement quota shortfall, and how to deal with generated income.

Should NPOs be at the P3 table?

Despite the oft-maligned paradigm of governments entering into contract with private firms to provide services and/or build infrastructure for the public good, public-private partnerships, or P3s, continue to gain steam in Canada. Where do nonprofits fit in?

Budget 2007: Legal implications for charities

Adam explains what the 2007 federal budget will mean for charities, plus highlights some of the other budget announcements that affect Canada’s nonprofit sector.

Completing your charity information return

Adam explains the purpose of the T3010, when it has to be filed, who gets to see it, and what you need to know about including sensitive information on the form.

Determining the value of charitable gifts

It’s not always clear what the value of a gift in kind actually is, which makes filling out a charitable tax receipt that much harder. Adam explains who is responsible for determining the fair market value of such gifts, how that assessment is carried out, and the risks involved if charities aren’t diligent about the process.

Receipting issues affecting registered charities

Adam reviews the CRA requirements for official donation receipts, the penalties for non-compliance, and some of the common questions that charities face when accepting gifts from donors.

How donors can make the most of their assets

Beyond cash, there are many other types of gifts that donors can give to charity. Lawyer Adam Aptowitzer reviews some of the options and what charities need to keep in mind when accepting such gifts.