CharityVillage Podcasts: A to Z of Charity Law

In this podcast, we continue the discussion of disbursement quotas that began in Part 1 and explore such topics as how to calculate your disbursement quota, whether or not an accountant is necessary, how foundations amass large endowments, and the definition of "enduring property". CRA disbursement quotas: Part 2

The Income Tax Act requires charities, as nontaxable entities, to spend a certain percentage of their income each year on charitable activities. In this podcast, find out more about these disbursement quotas, what happens when a charity doesn't comply with their disbursement quota, and how long-term projects fit into the equation. CRA disbursement quotas: Part 1

With investors throughout the world facing the economic crunch of volatile markets, charities might expect to see a decrease in gifts of shares or stock, and may even feel uncomfortable talking to their donors about the potential of such gifts. In this podcast, find out how the downturn in the stock market affects these types of donations from the perspective of both the donor and the charity, how the benefits that donors receive from such gifts differ from when the market is strong, and what a charity should do if they receive a gift of stock. How market conditions affect charitable giving (MP3)

On the surface, the difference between a corporate and an individual gift might seem quite negligible. However, it is important for charities to be aware of the differences between these two types of gifts so that they can ensure they are meeting all of their legal obligations. Find out more about tax credits vs. tax deductions, corporate donations as a business expense, and corporate sponsorships and charitable contributions in this podcast. Corporate vs. individual donations

Compliance agreements are really just agreements made by an organization to comply with the law. How does this affect charities? Typically, compliance agreements occur between charities and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), often following an infraction. Find out exactly what a compliance agreement is, when the CRA might issue one, and what happens if a charity violates a compliance agreement. What you need to know about CRA compliance agreements

When audited by the Canada Revenue Agency, charities may find themselves being asked to provide third-party information. Third-parties can be as varied as the charity's donors or employees, and when the CRA requests information, a charity has little choice but to hand it over. Listen now to learn more about situations where third-party information may be requested, the impact of a charity's privacy policy on such a request, as well as a charity's liabilities with regard to the accuracy of the information they provide. Providing third-party information to the CRA

When it comes to compliance with tax laws, many charities feel slightly in the dark. But an understanding of the CRA Charities Directorate and its regulations is of utmost importance if your charity is to avoid an audit, investigation, or even revocation of its charitable status. In this podcast, find out when a charity should communicate with the CRA Charities Directorate, best ways to contact the directorate, the role of the ombudsperson, and common mistakes when dealing with the directorate. Dealing with the CRA Charities Directorate