Transition to the new B.C. Societies Act
As a registered charity, one of your obligations is to maintain your status as a legal entity. If you are incorporated under the British Columbia Society Act (not-for-profit corporations), you need to transition to the new Societies Act. The transition must be completed by November 28, 2018, otherwise your society will be dissolved (cease to exist) and your charitable status could be revoked.
Complete the following three steps to remain compliant:
1. Transition to the new B.C. Societies Act
Use the B.C. Societies online filing system to transition your charity to the new Societies Act.
2. Update your bylaws
To comply with the Income Tax Act (Canada), we recommend that you add the following clauses:
- A provision stating that the organization will be operated without purpose of gain for its members, and that any profits or other assets of the organization will be used solely to promote its purposes (non-profit clause).
- A provision stating that in the event the organization dissolves, after it pays all its debts and liabilities, it will distribute or dispose of its remaining property to qualified donees as described in subsection 149.1(1) of the Income Tax Act (dissolution clause).
- A provision stating that the directors will serve as such without pay and will not directly or indirectly receive any profit from their positions. However, the organization may reimburse them for the reasonable expenses they paid while performing their duties (remuneration clause).
3. Send in your new governing documents
Mail the following documents to the Charities Directorate:
- A written statement confirming you have not changed your charitable purposes while transitioning.
- A photocopy of your certified constitution under the new B.C. Societies Act.
- A photocopy of your new certified bylaws.
Charities Directorate
Canada Revenue Agency
Ottawa ON K1A 0L5
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