The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) announced Thursday that Canadians will have until February 28, to claim charitable donations on their 2024 tax returns.
The extension comes in response to complaints from charities about a December postal strike that disrupted year-end contributions, typically their busiest fundraising period.
“The agency is confirming it will proceed with administering the 2024 deadline extension for charitable donations,” the CRA stated.
“The agency is administering this proposed legislation consistent with its longstanding practice.”
Although the statutory deadline for charitable tax credits expired on December 31, the Department of Finance has drafted legislation to allow the extension.
While Parliament remains prorogued until March 24 and no formal legislation can be passed, the finance department assured donors the change would be applied retroactively.
“Given the need to provide taxpayers with certainty as to how donations made during the extension period will be treated, the Department of Finance is not soliciting feedback on the draft legislation,” the department said.
“This extension will help mitigate the impact of last year’s Canada Post mail stoppage by providing donors with sufficient time to ensure their contributions are received and processed.”
Charities nationwide praised the extension, citing the urgent need to address rising poverty and food insecurity. The Salvation Army reported that 65% of its annual donations occur before Christmas, with two-thirds arriving by mail.
“More than half of people accessing food banks are coming for the first time,” said the Salvation Army. “Parents with children are missing bill payments and eating less so their children or family members can eat.”
Imagine Canada, a national charity advocacy group, welcomed the government’s move, noting it had worked closely with the finance department to secure the extension.
“Organizations and donors need not be worried by the fact legislation will be passed after the tax receipt extension,” the group reassured members in a notice.
The Department of Finance emphasized the importance of charitable contributions. “Charities work tirelessly to address poverty and hunger,” it wrote. “Many charities depend on the generous donations of Canadian individuals and businesses.”
