Finance & Integrations

Canadian Charitable Tax Receipt (CRA)

By: Alec Hollingsworth

Updated:

July 16, 2025

Definition:

An official document from a Canadian charity that enables donors to claim tax credits for their eligible gifts, as required by the CRA.

A Canadian Charitable Tax Receipt (CRA) is an official document issued by a registered Canadian charity to donors in acknowledgment of their financial or in-kind contributions. This receipt certifies that a donation has been made in compliance with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) regulations and includes detailed information such as the charity’s registration number, donor details, amount or fair market value of the gift, and date of the donation. Donors use these receipts when filing their income tax returns to claim charitable tax credits, potentially reducing their tax payable. Charities must ensure receipts are accurately prepared and retained for audit purposes, as errors or omissions can lead to penalties or loss of charitable status.

Key Takeaways

Issued by registered Canadian charities for eligible donations
Required for donors to claim charitable tax credits
Must comply with specific CRA requirements
Essential for both donor and charity tax records

Why It Matters

It allows donors to claim tax credits and ensures the charity complies with CRA rules.

Real World Example

A donor gives $500 to a registered Canadian charity supporting youth education. The charity uses Keela to record the donation and automatically generate a CRA-compliant charitable tax receipt, including their registration number, the donation amount, and the donor’s name and address. The donor receives the receipt via email and submits it with their annual tax return, qualifying for a federal and provincial tax credit. The charity securely stores a copy of the receipt in Keela for compliance and audit purposes, confidently meeting CRA regulatory standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What information must be included on a CRA charitable tax receipt?

Receipts must include the charity’s registration number, donor name and address, donation amount or fair market value, date, and a signature by an authorized representative.

Who can issue a Canadian Charitable Tax Receipt?

Only registered Canadian charities recognized by the CRA can issue official tax receipts for eligible donations.

Why are CRA-compliant receipts important for charities?

They are required by law, help donors claim tax credits, and protect the charity from penalties or loss of status due to noncompliance.

Are You Ready to Grow Faster and Raise More?

TALK TO US

EXPLORE KEELA'S PLANS