Responsibilities of authorized representatives

It is your responsibility as a representative to provide accurate information to the CRA. If incorrect information is provided, you may be held responsible and subject to third-party penalties; subsections 163.2(2), 163.2(4) under the Income Tax Act and subsections 285.1 (2) and 285.1 (4) of the Excise Tax Act. Third-party penalties are explained in detail in: Information Circular IC01-1, Third-Party Civil Penalties.

In addition, persons who are subject to third-party penalties could also face tax evasion charges. When individuals are convicted of tax evasion, they must still repay the full amount of taxes owing, plus interest and any civil penalties assessed by the CRA. In addition, the courts may fine them up to 200% of the taxes evaded and impose a jail term of up to five years. The CRA shares cases of people, corporations and trusts convicted in the courts for tax evasion.

If you suspect tax evasion, you can report it online at Canada.ca/taxes-leads or by contacting the Informant Leads Centre line at 1-866-809-6841. Steps will be taken to protect your identity, although you may provide information anonymously.

The CRA continues to encourage taxpayers to come forward and correct their tax affairs through the Voluntary Disclosures Program (VDP): Canada.ca/taxes-voluntary-disclosures.

The CRA reserves the right to revoke or suspend your privileges as an authorized representative of the taxpayer if you fail to abide by these terms and conditions of use.

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