Conclusion

This benchmark report is a preliminary examination of the compliance burden imposed on small businesses by the CRA. As we move forward in our commitment to implement the initiatives outlined in the Report on the Action Task Force on Small Business Issues, these benchmarks will serve to identify areas where we have reduced the compliance burden and areas where further work may be required.

• Using Our Benchmarks

The benchmarks noted in this report provide quantifiable measures of the compliance burden in relation to the laws administered by the CRA and in some cases, other products and services. We recognize that these benchmarks do not provide an exhaustive level of detail, and that we will need to consult other sources of information as we manage burden reduction. We now have a portrait of compliance burden and the role CRA can play to reduce this burden.

As the CRA's efforts to reduce the compliance burden evolve and as data becomes available, we will refine our understanding of the compliance burden. Using these benchmarks as a starting point, we will be able to track progress and focus on those areas that need attention.

Although we have a better understanding of the burden that tax compliance imposes, we recognize that a certain level of burden will continue to exist. Regulatory requirements serve to maintain the fairness and integrity of our taxation system.

This report lays a foundation for monitoring and improving the CRA's performance in reducing the compliance burden on small businesses.