Government launches consultations on the modernization of the federal framework for the charitable sector

Charities and non-profit organizations play a vital role in Canadian society. More than 86,000 registered charities deliver essential programs and services across Canada and abroad. They relieve poverty and support vulnerable populations, advance education and religion, and carry out a wide range of activities that strengthen communities.

October 8, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

Charities and non-profit organizations play a vital role in Canadian society. More than 86,000 registered charities deliver essential programs and services across Canada and abroad. They relieve poverty and support vulnerable populations, advance education and religion, and carry out a wide range of activities that strengthen communities.

Today, the Department of Finance and the Canada Revenue Agency launched consultations on ways to modernize the federal framework governing registered charities, helping ensure they can continue to play their critical role in communities across the country. The consultations will seek feedback on how the legislative and administrative framework can better support the charitable sector, reduce unnecessary administrative burdens, adapt to advances in technology and digitization, and strengthen transparency and public trust.

Canadians are invited to visit the consultation page and review the related consultation paper. They are also invited to share their views on modernizing the federal tax rules for registered charities and the Canada Revenue Agency’s administration of those rules, while protecting the integrity of charitable donation tax incentives. Submissions for this consultation will be open until December 3, 2026. Feedback is sought in four key areas: