Donations received by a Canadian YouTuber are generally considered taxable income and must be reported on their tax return. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) treats these donations as business or self-employment income if they are given in exchange for content creation, similar to ad revenue or sponsorships.
However, if the donations are truly personal gifts with no expectation of content creation, they might not be taxable. But in most cases—especially through platforms like YouTube Super Chats, Patreon, or Buy Me a Coffee—these are considered business income and must be reported. The YouTuber may also be able to deduct related expenses.
If you suspect that a Canadian YouTuber is not reporting their income to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), you can report them through the CRA’s Leads Program (Informant Leads Program). Here’s how you can do it:
1. Submit an Anonymous Tip Online
You can report suspected tax evasion through the CRA’s online reporting tool:
CRA Informant Leads Program
2. Call the CRA’s Informant Leads Line
• Phone: 1-866-809-6841 (Toll-free in Canada & U.S.)
• Available Monday to Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. (Eastern Time)
3. Mail or Fax a Written Report
• You can send a letter with details to:
National Leads Centre, 750 Heron Road, Ottawa, ON K1A 1A2, Canada
• Or fax it to: 1-888-724-4829
What Information to Provide
To make the report more effective, try to include:
• The YouTuber’s name and online alias (channel name, social media handles)
• How they earn income (YouTube donations, sponsorships, Patreon, etc.)
• Estimates of their earnings, if possible
• Why you believe they are not reporting their income
• Any supporting evidence (screenshots, videos, etc.)
Is It Anonymous?
Yes, reports can be made anonymously. The CRA does not require you to provide your name.
Let me know if you need more details!
