Meal expenses are a common tax deduction for many individuals, but determining what is and isn’t taxable can be confusing, especially when it comes to corporate tax planning.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) sets out specific rules and regulations for what can be claimed as a meal expense, and it’s important to understand these guidelines to avoid any tax complications.

In this article, we’ll explore what is and isn’t taxable when it comes to meal and vehicle rates, the difference between meal, travel, and entertainment expenses, the limits to meal expenses, how to claim meal expenses on your tax return, and if any of this differs if you’re self-employed.

Let’s get started!

What’s Taxable and What Isn’t When It Comes to Meal and Vehicle Rates

When it comes to meal and vehicle rates, not all expenses are created equal.

The CRA sets out specific guidelines for what can and cannot be claimed as a deduction.

In general, meal expenses are only tax-deductible if they are incurred while you are away from your usual place of business or employment or if you are required to work overtime and cannot reasonably return home for a meal.

If you travel for work purposes, you can claim meal expenses with the CRA as long as the travel is for a duration of 12 hours or more.

The CRA also sets out specific rules for vehicle expenses. If you use your personal vehicle for work purposes, you can claim expenses such as gas, insurance, and maintenance.

However, you can only claim the portion of these expenses that relate to work-related use.

For example, if you use your car 50% of the time for work purposes, you can only claim 50% of the expenses.

Is There a Difference Between a Meal Expense, a Travel Expense, and an Entertainment Expense?

It’s important to understand the differences between meal expenses, travel expenses, and entertainment expenses.

Meal expenses are costs associated with food and beverages while traveling or working away from your usual place of business.

Travel expenses are costs associated with travel, such as transportation, accommodation, and meals.

Entertainment expenses are costs associated with entertaining clients or customers, such as tickets to sporting events or meals at restaurants.

How Are Meal and Travel Expenses Calculated?

To calculate meal and travel expenses, you can choose between the detailed or simplified method.

The detailed method allows you to claim the actual amount you spent, while the simplified method uses a flat rate for vehicle and meal expenses.

Keep your receipts if you use the detailed method, but note that the CRA may still request documentation if you choose the simplified method.

Your total travel expenses include travel assistance provided by your employer and any expenses you paid for.

Is There a Limit to Meal Expenses When I File My Taxes?

Yes, there is a limit to meal expenses when filing taxes with the CRA, and it depends on the method chosen to calculate the expenses.

If using the simplified method, the limit is $23 per meal, to a maximum of $69 per day per person.

However, if using the detailed method, the limit is the actual amount spent, with receipts required as documentation.

How Do I Claim Meal Expenses on My Return?

Claiming meal expenses on your tax return can be a straightforward process if you keep accurate records, follow the eligibility criteria set out by the CRA, and enter the information correctly on your tax return.

By taking the time to understand the rules and regulations, you can reduce your tax bill and avoid any complications with the CRA.

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Keep Accurate Records

To claim meal expenses on your tax return, you need to keep accurate records and receipts of all meals and beverages purchased for business purposes.

These records should include the date, location, cost, and business purpose of each meal.

Make sure you keep these records organized and in a safe place.

Step 2: Determine Eligibility

Meal expenses are only tax-deductible if they are incurred while you are away from your usual place of business or employment or if you are required to work overtime and cannot reasonably return home for a meal.

If you travel for work purposes, you can claim meals as long as the travel is for a duration of 12 hours or more. Make sure your expenses meet the eligibility criteria set out by the CRA.

Step 3: Calculate the Amount

Calculate the total amount of meal expenses you are eligible to claim on your tax return.

Remember to only claim expenses that are incurred for business purposes and that meet the CRA’s guidelines.

Step 4: Enter on Tax Return

On your tax return, enter the total amount of meal expenses you are claiming as a deduction against your income.

Be sure to follow the instructions on your tax return carefully to ensure you are entering the information in the correct place.

Step 5: Keep Supporting Documents

Make sure you keep all supporting documents, including receipts and records of each meal, in case the CRA requests them for verification.

These documents should be kept for at least six years from the end of the tax year to which they relate.

Is Any of This Different if I’m Self-Employed?

If you’re self-employed, the rules and regulations for claiming meal expenses are slightly different.

You can claim meal expenses as a deduction against your self-employment income as long as they are incurred for business purposes and meet the CRA’s guidelines.

However, it’s important to note that you cannot claim meals that are considered personal or private in nature, such as meals with family or friends.

In addition, if you’re self-employed, you can also claim vehicle expenses related to your business.

This includes expenses such as gas, insurance, and maintenance.

However, you can only claim the portion of these expenses that relate to work-related use, similar to when you use your personal vehicle for work purposes as an employee.

Understanding Meal and Travel Expenses for Corporate Tax Filing

Understanding the guidelines and regulations surrounding meal and travel expenses can save you time and money when it comes to filing your corporate tax returns.

By keeping accurate records and receipts and ensuring that your expenses meet the eligibility criteria set out by the CRA, you can claim meal expenses as a deduction against your income.

It’s also important to note the differences between meal, travel, and entertainment expenses and to keep personal and private expenses separate from business expenses.

If you’re still unsure about how to claim your meal and travel expenses, it’s always a good idea to seek the advice of a professional.

At Liu & Associates, we specialize in corporate tax filing and can help you navigate the complicated world of tax regulations.

Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you maximize your tax deductions while staying compliant with the CRA.

Charitable giving is an amazing opportunity for Canadian businesses to support causes that matter most to them.

Donating to charity is an excellent way for your business to connect with your community and improve team morale among your employees.

It can also have financial benefits as well when it comes to corporate tax planning.

Here is more information on charitable giving and how much your business should donate to charity this year:

How Does Charitable Giving Affect Corporate Taxes?

Tax Deductions

Unlike personal taxes, a donation made by a corporation can be used as a deduction against the business’s income and is treated like any other expense.

When a corporation makes a donation, it can reduce the amount of income that is subject to tax.

Therefore, by making donations that are eligible for tax deductions, you can reduce your business’s tax liability.

However, the value of the tax savings depends on whether the reduction of income is subject to the small business tax rate, general corporate tax rate, or corporate investment tax rate.

How to Calculate

Charitable donation tax credit rates vary from province to province and are based on the rates determined in 2017.

For example, if your business claims a taxable income of $250,000 and makes a donation of $20,000, this is how the tax will be calculated:

Federally:

• 15% on the first $200 – $30
• 33% of the lesser of the amount by which the donation exceeds $200 ($19,800) or the amount by which your taxable income exceeds $200,000 ($50,000) – $6,534
• 29% of the amount of total donations for the year over $200 that is not eligible for the above rate ($50,000-$19,800=$30,200) – $8758
• Total: $15,322

Provincially:

• 10% on the first $200 – $20
• 21% on the remaining $19,800 – $4,158
• Total: $4,178

Therefore, in this example, you can claim $19,500 of the $20,000 charitable donation.

Of course, this is a basic calculation and doesn’t take into account your entire tax situation. 

To best calculate your taxable donations, it is recommended that you speak with an expert corporate tax accountant who can ensure all calculations are accurate.

Limits and Deadlines

Corporations can claim up to 75% of their net income in donations which must be claimed within the business’s fiscal year as an expense.

Sharing Claimable Donations Between Corporations

If you own more than one corporation, you cannot share donations between businesses when it comes to planning and filing your corporate taxes.

Only the corporation that made the donation can claim it.

Carryover

If a donation cannot be used during the tax year, it can be carried forward for up to five years.

What Donations Are Tax Deductible in Canada?

In order for your business to qualify for the donation tax dedication, you must donate to a qualified charity.

These are charities that are recognized by the CRA and can issue donation receipts for the money your business gives.

You can find a list of registered donees through the CRA.

Some eligible organizations include:

• Registered charities
• The United Nations
• National arts service organizations
• Registered Canadian amateur athletic associations (RCAAAs)
• Registered universities outside of Canada (that includes students from Canada)

Donations to US charities are allowed as long as your business has a US income source.

As far as what qualifies as an actual donation, the CRA recognizes donations as voluntary transfers of money or property in which you receive nothing in return.

If your business does receive something in return for your donation, the value of what you receive must be deducted from the amount of the donation.

For example, if your business purchases a $500 table at a charity dinner and the food costs $200, the eligible amount you can claim is $300.

How Much of a Charitable Donation Is Tax Deductible?

When it comes to claiming donations made through your business, how much of a charitable donation is tax deductible depends on the size of your company.

Small businesses, for instance, must list donations on Schedule 9 of a personal tax return, where they will receive the same tax credit treatment as a personal donation.

However, incorporated businesses have the choice to donate personally or through their corporation.

How Much Should I Donate Based on Revenue?

While there are no set rules as to how much you should donate based on your revenue, it’s important to remember that there are many ways to give charitably to organizations that align with your company’s values and mission.

The size of the donation should not be the only deciding factor – every dollar counts when it comes to supporting a worthy cause.

Overall, tax breaks shouldn’t determine how much your business gives to charity!

Take into consideration your company’s finances and choose an amount that suits your budget.

Should We Match Our Employees’ Individual Donations?

If you’re wondering if you should match your employee’s individual donations, the answer is yes!

Matched giving is an amazing way to involve your employees in your business’s charitable giving by matching the money they raise.

It encourages your employees to engage in supporting a worthy cause, and matching their donations will help them reach their goals and show your support.

Plus, matching your employees’ individual donations will help your company make a large social impact!

Encouraging your employees to donate to a cause doesn’t have to involve fundraising events. You can set up payroll donations or accept personal donations from your team.

And, yes, matched giving counts as a tax-deductible charitable donation – but you can only claim the amount you contribute, not the amount raised by your employees.

How Do We Choose a Cause?

Before you make any charitable donations through your business, it’s important that you choose the right cause to support.

That’s not to say that some causes are better than others, but you want to choose a cause that best aligns with your company, its values, and its employees.

Here are some tips for choosing a cause to support:

Choose a Cause That Supports Your Company’s Values

Think about your company’s core values and whether or not you want to donate to charities related to your business or support the needs of your community.

Just keep in mind that you can do both!

For instance, if you own a restaurant, you could donate to charities that address hunger and nutrition, local food banks, soup kitchens, and school breakfast programs.

It’s also important that you consider the charity’s values as well – do they align with yours?

Take a look at their core mission and see if they share your views and values.

Research the Charity Before Donating

Once you decide which charity you want your business to support, don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Talk to others in your industry and your community for feedback on the charity – have they made a significant impact with their donations?

You can also speak with the executive director of the charity you wish to support.

Consider their strategy and their long-term plan.

Ready to Get Started?

At Liu & Associates, we are dedicated to helping your company’s growth by offering exceptional corporate accounting services.

We can help you plan your charitable donations to optimize your support and tax deductions.

Get in touch with us today to get started!

Do you know what tax deductions your business is eligible for?

When tax season comes around, it’s important to make the most out of eligible deductions to save you money and help your business grow!

However, before you start claiming whatever you can for your business, be sure that all deductions are supported by original invoices and paperwork.

Doing so is the best way to avoid an audit or any issues if you are audited.

Eligible Expenses to Claim

As a general rule, businesses can claim expenses that maintain the business and ensure that it is operational.

And there is a lot you can claim! To maximize your business tax return, be sure to take advantage of these tax-deductible business expenses:

Advertising

You can deduct costs for advertising on Canadian radio and television, in Canadian newspapers, and digital advertising.

Bad Debts

If you have already included an accounts receivable as income during the year, you can claim it as a bad debt if it won’t be paid.

Business Start-Up Costs

Tax-deductible business expenses include those that preceded the operation of your business as long as you operated your business in the fiscal period in which the expense was incurred.

Business and Property Taxes

Be sure to deduct any business taxes incurred while running your business as well as property taxes for the building and land where your business is located.

Business Fees and Licenses

Fees, licenses, and dues related to your business are deductible unless the main purpose of the fees is dining, recreation, and entertainment.

Business-Use-Of-Home

If you run your business from your home, you can claim use-of-home expenses such as heat, electricity, insurance, maintenance, and other expenses.

However, you can only claim a percentage that is dependent on the size of your office compared to the rest of your home.

Capital Costs and Allowance

When you acquire a depreciable property (such as equipment, a motor vehicle, a building, etc.), you cannot deduct the cost of the property because its value decreases over time.

Instead, you can deduct the cost over a period of several years

Delivery

If your business is involved in delivery, freight, and express, you can claim certain expenses on your taxes.

Insurance

All ordinary commercial insurance premiums can be deducted as a business expense including any amounts incurred on buildings, equipment, and machinery.

Auto insurance claims are made under vehicle expenses.

Interest

When it comes to tax-deductible business expenses, you can deduct interest on money borrowed for business purposes.

Professional Fees

If you employ the services of an accountant, lawyer, or other eligible professional, you can claim those fees.

Maintenance and Repairs

You can deduct the cost of labor and materials when it comes to minor repairs or maintenance done to your business property.

Meals and Entertainment

This business tax deduction applies to meals and entertainment during business-related travel or events. It also applies to long-haul truck drivers who can deduct 80% of their food costs.

Motor Vehicle Expenses

If your business utilizes a motor vehicle to earn income, you can deduct related expenses.

Office Expenses and Supplies

When you run a business, you can claim the costs of office supplies such as pens, paper, and any supplies required to provide your goods and services.

Office expenses do not include capital expenditures.

Prepaid Expenses

Under the accrual method of accounting, you can claim expenses you paid ahead of time such as warranty, contracts, taxes, and workers’ compensation liability.

Rent

If you rent your business property, you can deduct rent for the land and building.

However, if you are claiming rent as a home business expense sense, this is done under business-use-of-home.

Salaries and Benefits

As a business with employees, you can deduct gross salaries and other benefits such as CPP (Canada Pension plan) and EI (Employment Insurance) premiums.

Utilities

Tax-deductible business expenses for utilities include telephone, gas, oil, electricity, water, and internet – as long as you incurred the expense to earn an income.

Ineligible Expenses You Cannot Claim

While there are many tax-deductible business expenses, there are some that you cannot claim on your business taxes:

• Clothing purchases including special gear
• Reimbursed maintenance and repair costs
• Political contributions
• Governmental penalties and fines
• Personal purchases

Recent Changes to Deductions (If applicable)

One recent change made by the CRA in 2017 eliminates the ability to claim allowance on eligible capital property.

Property that would have been considered eligible capital property is now considered to be depreciable property and can be claimed under “capital cost allowance.”

FAQs

How do I claim items and services that I use for both home and work, like my cell phone or vehicle?

You will have to figure out the portion that is used for business, create a percentage using the total use, and deduct that from your business taxes.

For example, if you use your cell phone for 25 hours per week for business and 90 hours total for the household, this would equal 27% so you would deduct that percentage of your cell phone bill.

I do all of my business taxes and invoicing online. Do I need to keep paper copies?

While you don’t necessarily need physical copies of this information, you will need to have access to them for at least six years in case you are audited.

How do I deduct business equipment I bought for my staff?

Depreciable equipment, such as laptops, is considered capital costs. You can deduct the value of the equipment over a number of years – this is known as a capital cost allowance (CCA).

I have an office at both my business and my home. How do I claim this?

Typically, you would claim your main office on your business taxes but this would be a great question for a professional accountant who can give you an answer based on your unique situation.

Need More Help Understanding Business Tax Deductions?

Liu and Associates are here to help? 

Our team of professional and knowledgeable accountants can guide you through filing your business taxes to ensure you get the best return possible and avoid any inconvenient audits.

Let’s chat today!