Compliance
Compliance Update: What You Need to Know from CRA’s 2026-27 Departmental Plan
CRA’s latest plan boosts compliance efforts, expands digital tools, and creates upfront approvals for SR&ED—crucial for businesses facing audits or reporting struggles.
By NomadicTax Research Team • 5-8 min read • April 4, 2026
## Overview of CRA’s Commitments in 2026-27
The Canada Revenue Agency’s **2026-27 Departmental Plan**, released just weeks ago, outlines key changes to compliance programs, audit priorities, and taxpayer services. ([canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/corporate/about-canada-revenue-agency-cra/departmental-plan/2026-27-cra-departmental-plan.html?utm_source=openai))
### Key Focus Areas
- **Aggressive GST/HST scheme detection**: Enhanced audit strategies to catch refund schemes, carousel fraud, and other high-risk GST/HST activities. ([canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/corporate/about-canada-revenue-agency-cra/departmental-plan/2026-27-cra-departmental-plan.html?utm_source=openai))
- **SR&ED program reforms**: Option for **elective pre-claim technical approval** so businesses can confirm ahead of time whether their projects and expenses are eligible. For audited claims, processing will drop from **180 to 90 days**. ([canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/corporate/about-canada-revenue-agency-cra/departmental-plan/2026-27-cra-departmental-plan.html?utm_source=openai))
- **Digital self-service tools & smarter collections**: New digital features in My Business Account, AI to help prioritize and investigate cases, improved repayment options for hardship. ([canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/corporate/about-canada-revenue-agency-cra/departmental-plan/2026-27-cra-departmental-plan.html?utm_source=openai))
## What This Means for Businesses & Individuals
### Businesses
- If you claim the SR&ED credit or similar innovation or R&D credits, early validation means less risk and fewer audit surprises. Submit your outlines ahead.
- GST/HST filing needs tighter control; ensure your processes, supporting documentation, and internal controls are solid to avoid triggering audits.
- Digital recordkeeping becomes more essential; being audit-ready can reduce penalties and interest.
### Individuals, Trusts & Small Entities
- Understand what qualifies for non-refundable and refundable credits. Your eligibility might be scrutinized, especially with aggressive audits in certain sectors.
- Keep excellent documentation for investments, trusts, or foreign activities—CRA is focusing on high-risk compliance.
- Use My Account to track debts or filings; preempt penalties by responding to notices promptly and using the new repayment flexibility if needed.
## Case Judgment: SR&ED Claim Adjusted Before Work Begins
An R&D firm planning a multi-million dollar hydrogen technology project files for SR&ED. Under the new elective pre-claim process, they submit project details June 2026. They receive notice of eligibility by September, allowing them to structure contracts and expenditure timing — avoiding later disallowed expenses and audit delays.
## Actionable Highlights
- Identify if your business undertakes research or innovation—start preparing for pre-claim process.
- Audit insurance isn’t optional: review supply chains, revenue streams, and GST/HST treatment to minimize risks.
- Use CRA’s digital and online tools: My Business Account, updated guides, digital filing—these tools are being enhanced.
**Bottom line**: CRA’s 2026-27 plan signals stronger enforcement, simpler services for some, and faster turnaround for innovation-based claims. Staying proactive—and organized—pays dividends.