06/30/2025
Why CRA Audits ITCs on GST Returns?
CRA wants to confirm that:
1. Expenses are eligible for ITCs (i.e., related to commercial activities).
2. Invoices meet CRA standards (must include supplier GST number, date, business name, etc.).
3. ITCs are not claimed twice or on exempt supplies.
4. Business is not mixing personal and business expenses.
5. Business is not claiming ITCs during periods when it wasn’t registered or wasn’t carrying on commercial activity.
🚨Common red flags:
Large ITC refunds relative to revenue.
High ITCs claimed in the startup phase.
Claiming ITCs without supporting documents (receipts, invoices).
Frequent amendments to past GST returns.