Do Charitable Donations Reduce Your Taxes in Canada?
Eligible charitable donations can reduce the tax you owe through non-refundable federal and provincial or territorial tax credits. The amount of the credit depends on the eligible donation amount and the rules that apply to your return.
The key word is eligible. A payment to a fundraiser, individual or online campaign is not automatically a charitable donation for tax purposes.
Donate to a qualified donee
The CRA allows donation claims for gifts to registered charities and other qualified donees. Before relying on a tax credit, confirm the organization is eligible to issue an official donation receipt.
Keep the official receipt
The receipt should contain the information required by the CRA. The eligible amount shown on the receipt can differ from the cash paid when the donor received an advantage in return.
You do not always have to claim the donation in the same year
The CRA allows unused eligible donation amounts to be carried forward for a number of years, depending on the type of gift. Some couples also choose which spouse claims eligible donations based on their overall tax situation.
A tax credit is not a dollar-for-dollar refund
A donation credit can reduce tax, but you should not donate solely because you expect to get the full donation back through taxes. The credit is only one part of the decision.
FAQ
Can I claim a GoFundMe donation?
Only if the donation was made to an eligible qualified donee and you received a valid official receipt.
Can my spouse claim my donation?
Eligible donations made by either spouse or common-law partner may be combined or claimed according to the applicable rules.
Do I need to submit the receipt with an electronic return?
Usually not, but keep it in case the CRA asks for support.
Call to action
If you made charitable gifts during the year, GROWS Financial can help make sure eligible receipts are included properly and not claimed twice.
Related services: Personal Tax.
Related reading: Which Medical Expenses Can I Claim on My Canadian Tax Return?
Official sources for fact-checking
Last reviewed: October 21, 2026.