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5 Common Tax Mistakes Canadian Small Businesses Make

March 10, 2025

Running a small business in Canada comes with many responsibilities, including staying compliant with tax regulations. However, with ever-changing laws, various deductions, and strict deadlines, small business owners make tax mistakes that result in costly penalties, audits, and financial setbacks. Here are five common tax mistakes Canadian small businesses make.

1. Not working with a professional 

Many small business owners try to manage their taxes alone to cut costs. While this might seem like an excellent saving strategy, it often leads to costly mistakes and compliance issues. Consider working with professionals from reputable firms like this Calgary accounting firm to ensure compliance with tax laws, maximize deductions, and reduce the risk of errors. A professional accountant can provide valuable tax planning strategies and help navigate complex financial regulations. This will help save time, reduce stress, and prevent costly penalties.

2. Failure to maintain accurate records 

One of the most common tax mistakes small business owners make is failure to maintain proper records of income and expenses. Poor bookkeeping can result in miscalculations, missed deductions, and potential audits, so ensure you keep an accurate record of your income and expenses. According to the Canada Revenue Agency, small business owners should maintain accurate records for at least six years. The following are tips to ensure your business's records are organized and compliant:

  • Use accounting software: Invest in reliable accounting software to track income, expenses, and invoices efficiently.
  • Separate business and personal finances: Maintain a dedicated business bank account and credit card to avoid confusion.
  • Keep digital and physical copies: Store receipts, invoices, and financial statements in digital and physical formats for easy access.
  • Reconcile accounts regularly: Compare financial records with bank statements monthly to catch errors early.

3. Missing tax deadlines

Many small businesses struggle with meeting tax deadlines, leading to unnecessary penalties and interest charges. Be sure to familiarize yourself with key dates, such as the deadline for filing a corporate tax return, often six months after the fiscal year-end. You could also set up automated reminders to prevent missed deadlines and associated fees.

4. Misclassifying workers

It is common for small business owners to misclassify workers, which can lead to severe tax and legal consequences. Many businesses label employees as independent contractors to reduce payroll taxes and avoid providing benefits. However, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has strict guidelines for worker classification, and misclassification can result in fines and back taxes.

To avoid misclassification, distinguish between employees and contractors by evaluating factors such as control, financial dependence, ownership of tools, nature of the working relationship, and profit or loss. You could also seek professional advice to ensure compliance, especially when in doubt.

5. Overlooking tax credits and deductions

Small businesses often miss out on crucial tax credits and deductions that could significantly reduce their tax burden. Commonly overlooked deductions include:

  • Home office expenses
  • Vehicle expenses
  • Business-related travel costs

The CRA also offers various tax credits, including the Scientific Research and Experimental Development ( SR&ED) tax credit. Keep detailed records and understand what qualifies you for tax benefits to maximize deductions.

Endnote

Managing taxes effectively is crucial for any small business's financial health and long-term success. Keep accurate records, meet deadlines, classify workers correctly, leverage tax deductions, and seek professional accounting assistance to help your small business achieve financial stability and success.


NCFA Jan 2018 resize - 5 Common Tax Mistakes Canadian Small Businesses MakeThe National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association of Canada (NCFA Canada) is a cross-Canada non-profit actively engaged with fintech, alternative finance, blockchain, cryptocurrency, crowdfunding and online investing stakeholders globally. NCFA Canada provides education, research, industry stewardship, services, and networking opportunities to thousands of members and subscribers and works closely with industry, government, academia, community and eco-system partners and affiliates to create a strong and vibrant crowdfunding and fintech industry. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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