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NO.: IC97-2R

DATE: March 12, 2001

SUBJECT: Customized Forms

This document is also available in other formats.

Customized Forms

Introduction

This circular replaces and cancels Information Circular 97-2, dated November 4, 1997. The information regarding T2 returns and schedules is applicable to 1998 and subsequent years.

Contents

General Information

1. This publication provides guidelines for the production of customized forms, as well as the conditions under which we are able to process them.

2. The Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) supplies Canadian taxpayers with the forms they need to file their information and income tax returns. However to reduce the workload of those who complete large numbers of forms, we accept certain forms other than our preprinted forms, such as customized information slips, summary forms, income tax returns, and schedules.

Customized forms

3. The following forms must be submitted for approval:

(a) all information slips and summary forms (e.g., T4 slip and T4 Summary form);

(b) the T1 return, schedules, tax credit forms, and Schedule T1-KS -- All forms with entries on the current year's Schedule T1-KS should also be submitted for reference purposes. The onus is on the submitter to ensure these forms comply with our specifications;

(c) Form T2 RSI and T2 facsimile return -- Form T2 RSI, Return and Schedule Information, is the output of an approved T2 commercial software. The T2 facsimile return is an exact copy of our preprinted T2 return. You will find more information in the section called "T2 customized returns";

(d) the T3 return and schedules;

(e) the T3-IND, T3D, T3M, T3P, T3RI, and T3ATH-IND returns;

(f) T3010 return, including schedules, for registered charities; and

(g) all the customs, excise, and goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) forms.

4. We accept forms other than those listed above provided they closely resemble our forms. We do not issue approval codes for these forms.

5. To be approved, customized forms must comply with our specifications for page size, paper stock, colour, text, detailed arrangement of information fields, and print positions.

6. We only approve the customized forms for which you submit a printer's proof each year and before they are printed. We evaluate the proofs and issue an approval code if the forms meet all our specifications. The code must appear in the lower right corner of all information slips. The position of the approval code on T1, T3, and T3010 returns is indicated in the section called "Customized returns."

Commercial software

7. If you are about to buy, or are already using, a commercial software to prepare tax returns or information slips, the software will provide you with the approval code and tell you which printers are compatible.

8. We approve only the hard copies of the forms, and not the actual software. The packaging of the product should inform the purchasers that the printed forms they produce with the software are approved for filing. The information should not leave the impression that the software used to calculate or generate their information has been approved. It should also be emphasized that the purchaser must set-up the software and the print driver according to the instructions of the product. If not, the printed forms will differ from the approved format and may be rejected by the tax centre.

9. We approve only the T2 RSI output of T2 commercial software. The exact copy of our preprinted T2 return, which may be printed as part of this software, is not included in the approval process.

10. It should also be noted that any problem arising from a software package, whether it be an improper set-up or incorrect calculations, is the responsibility of the purchaser and developer and must be rectified by them.

Approval process

11. We evaluate the customized information slips, returns, schedules, and forms that you submit. If they comply with our specifications, we assign an approval code (the T2 facsimile return excepted). You will find the information on our specifications for all customized forms, as well as additional information on the T1, T2, T3, T3-IND, and T3010 returns, in the following sections.

12. To receive our approval of all customized forms except Form T2 RSI and the T2 facsimile return, please submit two samples to:

Forms Management Division
Publishing Directorate
17th floor
Albion Tower
25 Nicholas Street
Ottawa ON  K1A 0L5

Note: You will find details regarding the approval of Form T2 RSI and the T2 facsimile return in the section called "T2 customized returns."

13. The samples must be submitted in the following form:

(a) good quality versions, or photocopies of perfect quality (faxed copies will not be accepted); and

(b) in the final format that you will use (handwritten changes on a previously printed form will not be accepted).

14. Enough time must be allowed for approval before the filing deadlines when submitting your T1 returns and information slips. The filing deadline for T1 returns is April 30 of the current tax year, and it is the last day of February of the current tax year for information slips.

15. When submitting a T1, T2, T3, T3-IND, or T3010 package, a covering memorandum listing all the forms contained in your software is required, whether they are submitted for approval or not.

16. When submitting an information slip or a summary form, you must specify whether you file on paper or magnetic media, and who will use the form.

17. You must submit only the current revision of your forms. We will not accept prior-year forms from a submitter with the intent or request that we mark up all new changes for the upcoming year. Any such submissions will be returned. It is the submitter's responsibility to proofread and correct the forms with respect to spelling, content, and format.

Preprinted forms

18. You can get copies of the T1 General package or of other forms from your tax services office, or you can download electronic versions from the Electronic Document Distribution System (EDDS). Information about EDDS is available by calling (613) 954-1389 or Mediatel at 1-800-267-8480. The electronic versions of the forms are also uploaded on the Internet once the printed versions are delivered to the tax services offices. You can now order forms on the Internet. Complete the online request form you will find at www.ccra.gc.ca, under "Forms and publications."

19. For more information about customized tax forms, call (613) 954-9350, and for customized customs, excise, and GST/HST forms, call (613) 954-5206.

Information Returns, Forms, and Slips

Guidelines for information slips

20. Information slips, such as the T4, T4A, and T5 slips, are the most common types of customized forms. They are accepted only if a printer's proof or a laser-printed copy is submitted to us for approval. Please note the following restrictions on size, paper stock, quality of carbon, and design:

(a) Maximum width: 8½ in.
  Minimum width: 7 in.
  Maximum length: 5½ in.
  Minimum length: 2¼ in.

(b) Minimum weight of paper is 24 M for multi-ply forms and 30 M for flat forms.

(c) Self-mailers have to conform to Canada Post standards and be submitted to that corporation for approval. The total weight of the self-mailer including its content should be at least five grams.

(d) If carbon is used, printers must ensure premium quality.

(e) You must ensure that the information on all copies of the forms is legible.

(f) We will accept unilingual forms if they are in the recipient's language of choice.

(g) For information slips, you may print only those boxes that meet the recipient's circumstances. However, all identification areas, income tax boxes, and code boxes are required. Please keep the numerical sequence of the boxes. The applicable information printed on the back of the recipient's information slip must be provided. If a box from the front of a form is deleted, the corresponding information on the back must also be deleted.

(h) The flag symbol of the CCRA's corporate signature is not required. However, you must reproduce the title portion of the CCRA's signature (Canada Customs and Revenue Agency). Please note that if you customize our forms, your corporate name must not be used in place of the CCRA's signature. You may indicate your corporate name in the area that requires the originator's name and address (usually at the bottom right of slips).

(i) Use approximately the same font size you find on our forms, but not a smaller one.

Additional requirements based on method of filing

Paper filing

21.

(a) Although colour assists the CCRA in processing, it is no longer a requirement. Documents may be filed on white paper.

(b) All summary forms filed on paper must show all the information boxes. They must be in the exact order and position as those on our forms.

(c) The shading in the boxes (in whole or in part) on any of our forms must also appear on your customized forms.

(d) Note that the term supplementary in no longer used to identify information slips.

(e) Serial numbering is not required.

Magnetic media filing

22.

(a) Forms printed on white paper are accepted.

(b) Serial numbering is not required.

23. If you would like more information on computer specifications for data filed on magnetic media for:

(a) Forms T4, T4A, and T4A-NR, refer to guide T4028;

(b) Forms T5, T5008, T4RSP, T4RIF, NR4, and T3, refer to guide T4031;

(c) Forms SAFER, T4A(OAS), T4A(P), T4E, and T5007, refer to guide T4029.

24. If you have any questions or need more information on magnetic media, please contact:

Magnetic Media Processing Team
Ottawa Technology Centre
Canada Customs and Revenue Agency
875 Heron Road
Ottawa ON  K1A 1A2

Telephone:  1-800-665-5164

Amendments

25. In the case of any amended information slip, please see the applicable guide.

Customized Tax Returns

26. Computer-printed tax returns, for example T1, T2, T3, and T3010 returns, are created using computer technology and are printed on regular or laser printers. All software developers, tax professionals, or individuals who create a program to print returns must obtain our approval to prepare these returns.

27. A unique approval code will be issued to each software developer, tax professional, or individual who produces a computer-printed tax return that meets our specifications. This approval code is valid for the year of the return only and has to appear on all computer-printed returns that are filed. If a computer-printed return is filed without an approval code, it may be returned by the tax centre, or the processing may be delayed.

Filing customized tax returns

28. To speed-up the process when you file a customized tax return, the return along with the schedules and other attachments must be in the order in which we will process them. These items should be stapled in the top left-hand corner so that all the information can be seen. You can find the correct order for various returns detailed further in this circular. Only the relevant completed schedules or forms should be attached to the return. Processing of the return may be delayed if you include blank schedules or forms.

29.

(a) When filing a T1 return, a keying summary (Schedule T1-KS) must be included with the computer-printed return. This schedule is required to ensure the accurate and complete data capture of the information contained on the schedules or forms. For additional information about the requirements for Schedule T1-KS, see the section called "T1 computer-printed returns."

(b) The information submitted in Form T2 RSI replaces the former Schedule T2-KS, Keying Summary. It is the only computer-printed output required when filing a T2 return using approved commercial software. Nevertheless, we ask that you also file a facsimile of the T2 return.

(c) When filing a T2 return using only a facsimile T2 return, a keying summary is not necessary.

30. We will accept photocopies of returns and schedules, whether they are photocopies of blank forms which are then completed, or photocopies of fully completed forms, including a photocopied signature. We will also accept forms downloaded in the PDF format from our Internet site (www.ccra.gc.ca). However, these returns and schedules have to meet the paper specifications outlined below.

Guidelines for customized tax returns

Paper specifications

31.

(a) For most documents, the page size has to be 21.5 cm × 28 cm (8½ in. × 11 in.) after the stubs have been removed.

(b) The paper quality has to be at least 32 M (16 lb.). If you are printing on both sides of the paper, the paper quality has to be at least 40 M (20 lb.).

(c) Continuous feed paper will be accepted if the pages are detached and the stubs removed.

(d) We will only accept the first copy of "no carbon required" paper.

(e) White paper will be accepted.

(f) The paper must not be lined.

Printing specifications

32.

(a) The quality, density, and clarity of font should be similar to the font that is on our returns.

(b) The page and line format should be the same as the page and line format on our returns.

(c) The identification information, line descriptions, and field numbers should be printed in the same order as they appear on our returns.

(d) The areas indicating "Do not use this area" should be shown in exactly the same size and configuration as on our returns.

(e) We will accept abbreviations as long as the descriptions are clear and concise.

(f) All titles and keying field numbers should be in bold print.

(g) All entries in the identification area and amounts entered in the keying fields should be in bold print.

(h) Zeros should not be entered in keying fields, unless specifically required.

T1 computer-printed returns

33. In addition to the paper and printing specifications above, the following are additional specifications for T1 returns:

(a) A T1 General package submitted for approval should include all provincial variations of the T1 schedules and tax credit forms. If you use forms for only certain provinces, include a letter stating this with your request for approval.

(b) The return, schedules, and other forms must show the tax filer's name and social insurance number on the top of each page.

(c) The keying fields should include some sample entries.

(d) The return and schedules have to show the dollar and cent indicators which are represented by large black dots beside the keying fields. For the cent indicator, we will accept the "¢" sign in the same position as the black dots on the return. A lower-case "c" will also be accepted.

(e) If our return shows a clear space of 3 cm to the right of a keying field or a blank line under a keying field, you must do the same. We use this space for corrections.

(f) The name and address area on page 1 of the return must not be smaller than that of our return. This is to accommodate the attachment of the client identification label. The top of the name and address area and of any other information areas on page 1 must be positioned at 3 cm or more from the top of the printed return. This will allow us to affix labels to the T1 return during processing.

(g) The printed return should not have more than 6 lines per inch vertically and 12 characters per inch horizontally.

(h) Enter the approval code on the last page of the return below "Do not use this area."

(i) A T1-KS keying summary must accompany each computer-printed return that contains free-format versions of any schedule or form with entries in the keying fields (e.g., Schedule 1, Schedule 3, and Schedule 7, Form T1C, Form T2222, and Form T2038(IND)). To speed-up processing, a blank Schedule T1-KS or a "no Schedule T1-KS required" statement should be included if there are no free-format versions of these forms.

(j) On some computer-printed returns (depending on the printer), it is difficult to distinguish a boldface from a normal typeface. To assist the processing and reduce the risk of keying errors, we reserve ourselves the right to request that you add brackets to the keying fields (for example, [101]) if, in our determination, we do not find enough variance between the boldface and normal typeface.

34. Please note that the customized T1 return and the T1-KS must be identical to our forms. In the case of schedules, tax credit forms, and any other form of more than one page listed on Schedule T1-KS, indicate the numbering at the bottom of each page (e.g., page 1 of 2). If you must insert a different page break, make the break where it will cause the least confusion. The sequence of any line numbers on our forms must never be changed.

T2 customized returns

35. There are two formats of T2 customized returns: Form T2 RSI and the T2 facsimile return.

Form T2 RSI

36.

(a) Form T2 RSI, Return and Schedule Information, is the new format for filing a computer-printed T2 return. This form summarizes all the keying information from the T2 return and schedules, as well as the General Index of Financial Information (GIFI). For more details on the GIFI, see the section called "General Index of Financial Information."

(b) We issue an approval code for software that have met our T2 RSI specifications. If Form T2 RSI does not display a valid approval code, the filer will be asked to resubmit, either using an approved software, a T2 facsimile return, or using our preprinted T2 return.

(c) As Form T2 RSI is available only from approved tax preparation software, specific requirements regarding its design, and paper and printing specifications are not included in this circular. If you are interested in developing a software that produces Form T2 RSI or to have your software approved, please contact:

T2 Processing Section
Business Returns and Payment Processing
2nd floor
Place Vanier, Tower C
25 McArthur Road
Vanier ON  K1A 0L5

T2 facsimile returns

37.

(a) These returns are exact copies of our T2 return. They have to meet our standards of format, legibility, and paper quality. However, you can print them on separate pages, instead of on the back and the front of each sheet.

(b) You must submit these returns for approval to the address indicated in the section called "Form T2 RSI." We do not assign them an approval code. If the reproduction of a form is not legible or easy to process, we will return the form for resubmission.

T3 computer-printed returns

38. There are two types of T3 computer-printed returns:

(a) T3 returns; and

(b) T3-IND returns.

39. In addition to the paper and printing specifications (see paragraphs 30 and 31), the following are additional specifications for T3 returns and T3-IND returns, schedules, and any related forms.

T3 returns

40.

(a) A T3 return package should include the T3 return, schedules, and any related forms.

(b) The T3 return, schedules, and related forms should show the name of the trust and the tax year at the top of each page.

(c) Enter the approval code on the last printed line of page 4 of the return.

T3-IND returns

41.

(a) A T3-IND package should include the return and any related schedules.

(b) The T3-IND return and schedules should show the name of the trust and the tax year at the top of each page.

(c) Enter the approval code on the last printed line on the last page of the T3-IND return.

T3010 computer-printed returns

42. In addition to the paper and printing specifications (see paragraphs 30 and 31), there are other specifications for T3010 returns:

(a) The return and confidential schedules should show the charity's BN/registration number and fiscal period end on the top of each page.

(b) Enter the approval code on the first page of the T3010 below the space provided for the charity's email address.

Rejected computer-printed returns

43. The following are some of the reasons why the computer-printed returns may not be acceptable for processing:

(a) The paper quality does not meet our basic weight standards.

(b) The print quality is illegible.

(c) The return is not in the correct format.

(d) The return does not show dollar and cent indicators.

(e) The return does not show an approval number.

44. These returns may be delayed or returned by the tax centre for correction.

Order of Attachments

General

45. When filing a tax return, the attachments should be arranged in the order in which we process them (see the appropriate order in the lists below). This will accelerate processing of the returns. Also, if you are making an election, note it prominently in the relevant area of the return and schedules, or attach a note.

T1 returns

46. A cheque or money order should be attached to page 1 of the return if applicable. All other applicable enclosures should be attached horizontally to the top left-hand corner of page 3 of the return.

(a) Form RC71, Statement of Discounting Transaction;

(b) Form DC905, Bankruptcy Identification Form;

(c) Form T1132, Alternative Address Authorization;

(d) Statement of Lending Transaction (Industry Canada-CCA-2736);

(e) Province of Quebec information slips (TP slips and Relevé slips);

(f) Form T2201, Disability Tax Credit Certificate;

(g) Schedule T1-KS;

(h) Form T1198, Statement of Qualifying Retroactive Lump-Sum Payment;

(i) Information slips-T4, then all others in any order (NR4, T3, T5, etc.);

(j) RRSP contribution receipts;

(k) All other schedules, forms, and receipts in any order.

T2 returns

47. If using approved tax preparation software in the T2 RSI format:

(a) Form T2 RSI with the pages in the order the software prints it;

(b) A T2 facsimile return;

(c) Official receipts;

(d) Financial statements, if GIFI not used (see the information on the GIFI in the section called "General Index of Financial Information (GIFI)");

(e) Other attachments.

48. If using a T2 facsimile return or our preprinted T2 return:

(a) A T2 facsimile return or our preprinted Form T2,
T2 -- Corporation Income Tax Guide (form 200);

(b) Schedules, in numerical order;

(c) Official receipts;

(d) Financial statements or GIFI forms;

(e) Other attachments.

T3 returns

49.

(a) Form RC71, Statement of Discounting Transaction, or a statement of lending transaction, identified as the copy to be attached to the T3 return;

(b) Province of Quebec information slips (TP slips or Relevé slips);

(c) Schedule 12, Minimum Tax;

(d) Schedule 11, Federal Income Tax;

(e) Form T2209, Federal Foreign Tax Credits;

(f) Schedule 13 or 14, provincial and territorial tax schedules;

(g) Form T2036, Provincial Foreign Tax Credit;

(h) Form T86, Manitoba Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit;

(i) Form T2038(IND), Investment Tax Credit (Individuals), for 1995 and subsequent years;

(j) Form T184, Capital Gains Refund for a Mutual Fund Trust;

(k) Forms T82, T79, and T81, for provincial tax rebate;

(l) Schedule 10, Part XII.2 Tax and Part XIII Non-Resident Withholding Tax;

(m) Schedule 9, Summary of Income Allocations/Designations to Beneficiaries;

(n) Schedule 3, Trust's Eligible Taxable Capital Gains;

(o) Form T3A, Request for Loss Carryback by a Trust;

(p) Information slips for income received;

(q) Schedule 12, Minimum Tax (when completed and minimum tax does not apply);

(r) All remaining schedules in numerical order;

(s) Receipts and all other information in any order.

T3010 returns

50.

(a) Correspondence;

(b) Pages 1 to 13 of the T3010 returns;

(c) Attachments providing additional information;

(d) Financial statements.

Additional Information

General Index of Financial Information (GIFI)

51. The GIFI is the new method of reporting financial information that accompanies the redesigned T2 processing system. It is an extensive list of financial statement items where each item has a unique code (e.g., the code for "cash" is 1001). Filers index the information from their existing financial statements by choosing the most appropriate code for each item. Instead of filing financial statements, the codes and amounts can be filed as part of Form T2 RSI.

52. All tax preparation software that generates Form T2 RSI includes the GIFI to allow easy capture of financial information.

 53. An abridged version of the GIFI called the GIFI-Short is available in paper format for corporations with gross revenue and assets of less than $3 million that do not use tax return software.

54. At this time, using the GIFI to submit financial information is optional if you file a paper return. However, the GIFI format will be mandatory for all corporations with the 2000 fiscal year end. Exceptions to this include non-profit organizations and insurance corporations (life insurers, deposit insurers, property and casualty insurers).

55. For information on the GIFI, refer to publication RC4088, Guide to the General Index of Financial Information (GIFI) for Corporations.

56. For information on the GIFI-Short, refer to publication RC4089, General Index of Financial Information -- GIFI-Short Form.

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2018-02-19