Does my Sports Association Need to File Taxes?

In our previous article, we outlined what it means for sports associations to be financially compliant. Now, we will build your understanding on what to file, when to file, and the requirements for various financial statements. To help you remain compliant and ensure the smooth operation of your organization, this article will provide a clear overview of the tax filing obligations of sports associations in Ontario, Canada, as well as the various levels of financial statements, which may be required, and what your organization’s accountant will ask for in preparing them.

Why are Tax Filings Important for Sports Associations?

Tax filings are crucial for sports associations to ensure they comply with Canadian tax laws and maintain their not-for-profit status. Proper tax filings help demonstrate transparency and accountability, which are critical for maintaining trust with members, donors and regulatory bodies. Understanding the specific requirements for tax filings can help sports associations avoid penalties and ensure they are meeting their legal obligations.

What Tax Filings are required?

What is the T2 Return?

The T2 Corporation Income Tax Return is required for all incorporated entities, including not-for-profit organizations. While most sports associations might not owe taxes, they must still file a T2 return to report their financial activities. This return provides the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) with detailed information about the organization's income, expenses, and overall financial health.

What is the NPO Information Return?

The NPO Information Return (Form T1044) is also required for not-for-profit organizations if they meet any of the following criteria:

• They received or were entitled to receive taxable dividends, interest, rentals, or royalties totaling more than $10,000 in the fiscal period.
• Their owned assets exceeded $200,000 at the end of the previous fiscal period.
• They had to file an NPO Information Return for any previous fiscal period.

Once an organization files an NPO Information Return, they must continue to do so for all subsequent fiscal periods, regardless of its revenue or asset value. This ensures ongoing compliance and transparency in financial reporting.

Organizations required to file an NPO Information Return may also need to file other returns such as the T2 Corporation Income Tax Return or the T3 Trust Income Tax and Information Return, depending on their activities and financial structure.

When is a T3 Return Necessary?

Any NPO organization whose main purpose is the provision of dining, recreation, or sports facilities for its members must file a T3 Trust Income Tax and Information Return to report is investment income. ?There is a basic exemption of $2,000, which means taxes are only payable on amounts over that threshold. ?For sports associations with significant investments, understanding the T3 filing requirements is essential to maintain compliance with tax laws.

What are the Requirements for a Compilation vs. Review vs. Audit?

Financial reporting goes beyond just tax returns. The requirement for a compilation, review or audit engagement depends on the revenues and funding of the sports association, as well as the requirements set forth by stakeholders such as sponsors, members, and regulatory bodies. Generally:

• Compilations?are suitable for smaller organizations with straightforward financial transactions and lower risk.
• Reviews?may suffice for mid-sized associations with moderate financial activity.
• Audits?are required for larger associations, those receiving significant public, or government funding.

As each of these types of engagements differ in complexity, they also differ in terms of how you will work with your organization’s accountant to have them prepared and finalized for use.

What is required for a Compilation?

A compilation is the simplest form of financial statement preparation. The accountant compiles the financial information provided by the organization into financial statements without providing any assurance on their accuracy.?

To prepare for a compilation, your accountant will need:

• Financial Data: Basic financial data, including summaries of income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
• Supporting Documents: Your accountant might request key documents that substantiate the financial data, such as bank or investment statements or other financial summaries.

What is required for a Review Engagement?

A review engagement provides a moderate level of assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatements. It primarily involves analytical procedures and inquiries with management.

To prepare for a review, your accountant will ask for:

• Financial Statements: Draft financial statements for the fiscal year end.
• Bank Reconciliations: Reconciliations between bank statements and the general ledger.
• Balance Sheet, Revenue and Expense Details: Summaries of major balance sheet accounts, revenue sources and expense categories.
• Management Explanations: Clarifications on any unusual or significant financial activities during the year and in comparison to the prior year’s activities. ?

What is required for an Audit?

An audit is a comprehensive examination of an organization’s financial statements conducted by an independent auditor. It involves verifying the accuracy and completeness of financial records and providing an opinion on whether the financial statements fairly represent the organization’s financial position.?

To prepare for an audit, your accountant will likely request:

• Financial Statements: Draft financial statements for the fiscal year end.
• Complete Financial Records: Detailed records of all financial transactions (balance sheet and revenue and expense details), including account reconciliations, bank statements, and detailed account ledgers and summaries.
• Management Explanations: Clarifications on any unusual or significant financial activities during the year and in comparison to the prior year’s activities. ?
• Internal Control Documentation: Information on the internal processes and controls in place for managing finances.
• Board Minutes and Bylaws: Copies of board meeting minutes and current bylaws, as these provide context for financial decisions.
• Supporting Documents: For all financial transactions including access to sales invoices and expense receipts, as well as any agreements, contracts, or significant correspondence related to financial transactions.

Each of these engagements —compilation, review, and audit—requires specific documentation and attention to detail. Having the required records and supporting documents ready will help ensure an efficient and effective process with your accountant.

Conclusion

Knowing the tax filing requirements and the differences between the types of engagement report needed to accompany your financial statements is essential for sports associations in Ontario to maintain compliance and demonstrate financial accountability. By familiarizing themselves with the NPO, T2, and T3 returns and knowing when a compilation, review or audit is necessary, sports associations can ensure they meet their legal obligations.

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This blog is not meant to provide specific advice or opinions regarding the topic(s) discussed above. Should you have a question about your specific situation, please discuss it with your GBA advisor.

GBA LLP is a full-service accounting firm in the Greater Toronto Area, but we primarily service all of Ontario as well as the rest of Canada virtually, except Quebec. Our team of over 30 provides audits and reviews of financial statements, compilations of financial information, and corporate tax returns. ?We provide specialized corporate tax and succession planning for small and medium businesses, in addition to general advisory services.

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