CHARITIES AND FOR-PROFITS WORKING TOGETHER: Receipts for Cause-Related Marketing

13 Oct CHARITIES AND FOR-PROFITS WORKING TOGETHER: Receipts for Cause-Related Marketing

A registered charity may work with a for-profit entity to promote the sale of the for-profit’s items on the basis that part of the revenues will go to the charity. This is commonly called cause-related marketing. On February 9, 2017, CRA published guidance addressing this.

CRA noted that the benefit that a for-profit receives from this type of arrangement is considered an advantage. The charity must quantify this advantage and reduce it from the amount of the donation to calculate the eligible donation. Where the total value of the advantage cannot be calculated, the charity cannot issue a receipt. That said, CRA noted it may be possible to claim the donation as an advertising expense.

Action Item: Consider this type of arrangement to raise funds for your charity! Or, as a for-profit, to raise your profile in the community.

This publication is produced by Andrews & Co. as an information service to clients and friends of the firm, and is not intended to substitute for competent professional advice. No action should be initiated without consulting your professional advisors.