Extension of 2024 Charitable Donation Deadline Due to Postal Strike

The Department of Finance announced on December 30, 2024, its intention to amend the Income Tax Act to extend the deadline for charitable donations eligible for 2024 tax credits. On January 23, 2025, draft legislation supporting this change was released, which will be introduced in Parliament at a date yet to be announced.

To provide clarity for the 2024 tax season, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed it will administer the extension, following these guidelines:

Impact on Donors

1. Individuals can claim eligible charitable donations made until February 28, 2025, on their 2024 tax return.
2. Unclaimed donations made until February 28, 2028, can be applied to the 2025 tax return or carried forward.
3. Corporations and graduated rate estates also qualify for the extension.
4. Equities are not eligible for this deadline extension.

This measure ensures donors impacted by postal delays can still maximize their charitable contributions for the 2024 tax year.

For more information, visit the Department of Finance website. Updates will be provided as available.