AFP Canada Applauds the Federal Government’s Plan to Extend the 2024 Charitable Receipt Deadline
December 31, 2024, yesterday the federal government announced that it intends to amend the Income Tax Act by extending the donation deadline. Given the significant impact the postal strike had on charities across the country, this change is welcome. It gives donors sufficient time to ensure contributions are received and processed, enabling charities to deliver vital services to the Canadians who depend on them.
“We are thrilled to see this announcement for Canada’s charitable sector,” responded Aaron Sanderson, CFRE, ACFRE, chair-elect and government relations chair of AFP Canada. “Giving Canadians the option to claim their January and February 2025 donations towards their 2024 tax year is the right approach.”
Earlier in December, AFP Canada sent a letter to the government urging a one-time exception for charities whose supporters intended to make donations in 2024, but were not able to do so due to delays in the postal service.
“Knowing that charity resources are limited, AFP asked the federal government to offer this solution in the interest of Canada’s charities and the generous people who donate to them,” shared Sanderson.
“This approach, enacted previously in 2004 tax policy, honours the intent of donors in Canada while minimizing the administrative burden on charities that provide critical services, such as food, shelter and healthcare,” explained Sanderson.
AFP encourages all donors to generously support charities and make a meaningful impact by contributing in ways that are most convenient and effective. Whether donating via phone, online, or in person, these methods help ensure that donations reach those who need them most, as quickly and efficiently as possible. Donations matter more than ever.
About AFP
AFP Canada is a leading national voice for fundraising professionals who are vital in advancing charitable work. The 3,000 AFP members in Canada play a critical role in helping to shape Canadian policy and by raising funds that change lives. They fundraise for organizations large and small, in rural and remote communities as well as towns and major cities across the country. Fundraisers support the arts, culture, shelters, emergency services, healthcare, education, reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, and social justice, all while contributing over 8% to GDP annually.
AFP members in Canada are part of the larger AFP Global network—the largest community of professional fundraisers in the world. The approximately 26,000 members worldwide raise over $100 billion annually to support thousands of philanthropic causes and organizations across the globe in accordance with AFP’s Code of Ethical Standards.
For more information, please contact:
Lisa Davey
Vice President
AFP Canada
lisa.davey@afpglobal.org