This module covers the requirement of keeping books and records in two formats: print and electronic. Key areas covered are: accessible and useable copy; scanned images; and backup files. The general requirements are the same for print and electronic books and records. There are more technical compatibility requirements for electronic records.
Introduction
This module covers the requirements of keeping books and records in two formats: print and electronic.
Key areas covered are:
- accessible and useable copy
- scanned images
- backup files
General Information
Books and records can be kept in
or
- electronic format
The requirements of books and records including the length of retention applied to both print and electronic records.
Print Records
Print or paper copy of records should all be kept in one area for easy access.
They have to be easily accessible for Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) officials to inspect, examine or audit.
Copies of the print records should be kept in a separate location for backup purposes.
Electronic Format
An electronic record is information recorded in an electronically readable format.
Records created and maintained in electronic format must be kept in electronically readable format even if hard/printed copies are available. This includes original source documents created by the charity or received from suppliers.
Accessible Copy
Electronically readable format means information is supported by a system that can produce accessible and useable copy for use on CRA equipment.
Accessible copy means that the copy is acceptable and in useable format for CRA auditors to process and analyze with CRA software.
Useable Copy
Useable copy means that the electronic record:
- can be processed and analyzed with CRA software
- is in a non-proprietary commonly used data interchange format that is compatible with CRA software.
If the electronic files are encrypted, they have to be in an accessible and useable state as described.
Scanned Images
Scanned images of paper documents, records or books of account that are maintained in electronic format are acceptable if proper imaging practices are followed and documented.
Detailed information on imaging practices can be found in Electronic records management and imaging, IC05-1 Electronic Record-Keeping
Location of Server
Electronic books and records have to be on a computer/server physically located in Canada.
Electronic records maintained outside of Canada but accessible electronically in Canada do not meet the location requirement.
Backup Data File
Backup data file should be in a format that can be restored to produce accessible and useable copy for use with CRA equipment and software.
Additional Information
For more information on electronic records, see IC05-1 Electronic Record-Keeping
Notice
Information in this module is provided for general educational purposes and not as legal or accounting advice. Consult a lawyer or accountant for professional advice.
Information is accurate as of 2019.
For changes after this date, consult Canada Revenue Agency.