Getting audited by CRA is no fun. Your best chance of avoiding an audit is by doing things right before you file your return this year. Some suggestions:
- Don’t leave anything out. Missing or incomplete information on your return will trigger an audit letter automatically.
- Double-check your numbers. Bad math will get you audited. People often make calculation errors when they do their returns, especially if they do them without assistance.
- Don’t stand out. The CRA takes a closer look at business expenses, charitable donations and high-value itemized deductions.
- Have your documentation in order. Be meticulous about your recordkeeping.
- Items that will support the tax breaks you take include: cancelled checks, receipts, credit card and investment statements, logs for mileage and business meals and proof of charitable donations.