CRA Tax Audits

Receiving notification of a CRA tax audit is an unwelcome and anxiety provoking situation but one that can be managed with the support of an experienced CRA audit lawyer. Our CRA audit lawyers have extensive experience in assisting you with understanding what is required when responding to a CRA tax audit.

Introduction to CRA Tax Audits

A CRA tax audit occurs when the CRA decides to audit a person's tax returns to ensure that they have paid or are currently paying the appropriate amount of tax. The auditor is looking for mistakes that could lead to a higher tax bill and the taxpayer then has a legal obligation to cooperate with the CRA when an audit is required.

In 2017, approximately 30,000 letters were sent out regarding notifications and issues related to CRA tax audits. In all of these situations, it is imperative to identify an experienced attorney to help you with your CRA audit process immediately.

Who Is Likely to Get Audited By the CRA?

While the CRA has the authority to investigate and audit anyone who is responsible for paying taxes to the Canada Revenue Agency, there are various factors given to CRA's analysis which will vary with a taxpayer's individual situation.

Many of the employees tasked with CRA compliance work in the business field for small and medium businesses,this also applies to Uber drivers followed by international and large businesses. Many of the CRA audit and compliance employees working with the agency are involved in business audits. Businesses are much more likely to be audited than are employees and submitting a request to amend a prior return most often triggers audit activity.

Industries that have a record of poor compliance are more likely to be targeted for audits more frequently and taxpayers with outlier claims, including deductions or income out of the ordinary compared with other taxpayers with their own tax history, are more likely to be audited.

Red Flags That Could Lead To a CRA Tax Audit

Some of the most common red flags that could lead to a CRA audit include recurring losses, significant charitable deductions, claiming 100% vehicle use for a business, off shore accounts, large funds transfers, and suspected criminal enterprises that are not paying taxes.

Furthermore, the CRA has been actively encouraging other Canadians to report on their neighbors, associates and friends. Anyone who discusses their tax affairs with others are at a higher risk of being reported.

What to Expect During a CRA Tax Audit

During a CRA audit, the auditor will look at all relevant records, including those at the taxpayer's workplace. Particular documents that the auditor will most likely be concerned with include business records including journals and ledgers, expense account details, purchase and sales invoices, and financial records and statements.

The auditor may begin the audit at your place of work and will expect to speak to people in the accounts team or department. An audit can take anywhere from several weeks to several months and once the audit is carried out, the auditor could recommend adjustments to the submitted return. These proposed adjustments have to be made in writing and will be discussed with you.

You can make a new proposal in light of any new information supplied to the auditor if you are dissatisfied with the proposals. Fast action is necessary for protecting your interests in the event of a CRA tax audit.

Hiring a CRA Tax Audit Lawyer

It goes without saying that the possible outcome of a CRA tax audit can have significant repercussions for you as an individual or for your business. This is why it is essential to have the support of an experienced CRA tax audit lawyer brought into the situation as soon as possible.

A CRA tax audit lawyer may be able to help you avoid many common mistakes and can assist you with preparing necessary documentation. The sooner that you have engaged with a CRA tax audit lawyer, the easier it will be for you to respond and the more opportunities you will have to avoid penalties or other allegations of criminal activity. The support you obtain from a CRA tax lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case and can also ease your fears significantly during an overwhelming and difficult process.

Being selected for a CRA tax audit can be a daunting experience. Our Canadian Tax Lawyer to Help You Navigate a Tax Audit Process, or Avoid it Altogether. Click here for more tips!

FAQ's

How long does the CRA have to audit you?

The normal reassessment. For an individual is three years. However in the case of gross negligence or criminal tax evasion there is no limitation. And a tax audit can go back indefinitely.

What causes a CRA audit?

There are different triggers for CRA tax audits. Some are random. Some are industry or project related such as condo purchasers. Some are based on demographics. In addition all tax tips result in an investigation and a possible tax audit.

What happens if I get audited and don't have receipts?

If you do not have receipts, the auditor from CRA may be willing to accept other documentation, such as a bill from the expense or a canceled check or a credit card statement.

Disclaimer:

"These articles provide information of a general nature only. It is only current at the posting date. It is not updated and it may no longer be current. It does not provide legal advice nor can it or should it be relied upon. All tax situations are specific to their facts and will differ from the situations in the articles. If you have specific legal questions you should consult a lawyer."

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