The Canadian Charity Law Podcast

This episode explains how to start a non-profit society specifically in British Columbia, offering a step-by-step process for incorporation. It highlights key stages such as building a core team, choosing a name, defining the society's purpose, and crafting bylaws. The discussion also touches upon filing for incorporation, opening a bank account, and the separate process of obtaini

This episode outlines the necessary steps for establishing a not-for-profit corporation in Toronto. The process involves choosing a unique name, preparing Articles of Incorporation, appointing directors, defining bylaws, and submitting an incorporation application. The guide also mentions the optional step of obtaining charitable status through the Canada Revenue Agency for additio

This episode explains the crucial early decision for nonprofits looking to incorporate in Ontario: whether to incorporate provincially (specifically in Ontario) or federally. Provincial incorporation in Ontario offers benefits such as easier access to funding, potential tax advantages, limited liability protection, an independent legal identity, and perpetual existence. Federal inc

This episode addresses the crucial topic of executive compensation within Canadian charities (with some references to US charity law as well), emphasizing the need for fair and reasonable pay to attract and retain competent leadership while adhering to legal and ethical standards. Canadian regulations, particularly by the CRA, define compensation broadly and strictly prohibit undue

This episode, Essential Principles for Charity and Nonprofit Bookkeeping, outlines crucial guidelines for managing a Canadian organization's finances. It emphasizes meticulously documenting and summarizing all financial transactions using accrual and double-entry bookkeeping methods for accuracy and internal control. The discussion stresses the importance of a comprehensive chart o

This episode offers practical advice for individuals considering founding a Canadian nonprofit organization. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection regarding motivations and ensuring a genuine need exists for the proposed organization. The discussion highlights key considerations such as developing a sound business plan, exploring various organizational structures, and und

This episode provides guidance to Canadian charities on preparing for and managing audits by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It highlights the potential consequences of audits, including revocation of charitable status and reputational damage. The discussion details the CRA audit process, common audit triggers, and possible outcomes, ranging from education letters to revocation. F

This episode addresses the rewards and risks involved in hiring a celebrity for charity marketing.This episode is jointly sponsored by B.I.G. Charity Law Group Professional Corporation, a Charity Law Firm exclusively serving charity and not-for-profit clients in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada with registration and governance, and B&H Charity Accounts Group, a bookkeeping fi

This episode outlines the CRA's recommended due diligence approach for grant-making to non-qualified donees (i.e., non charities), emphasizing alignment with charitable purpose and risk assessment. The model stresses collaboration, accountability, and thorough documentation for responsible grant management. Consistent application of these principles protects the charity and acknowl

This episode provides a thorough outline of how Canadian charities can safeguard their assets against various legal and financial threats. The discussion emphasizes the importance of comprehensive asset management, including meticulous financial record-keeping and strategic insurance coverage. Protecting organizational identity through trademark registration and carefully managing