Going Paperless: Digital Recordkeeping 2025 — How To Improve Compliance And Reduce Expenses

The CRA’s digital-first initiative now requires businesses to maintain encrypted, retrievable electronic financial records. Paper archives no longer meet compliance standards. Mackisen CPA Auditors Montreal helps organizations transition to secure digital systems that enhance audit readiness and reduce annual administrative costs.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Income Tax Act (Canada) Section 230(1): Mandates six-year retention of digital or physical records.
CRA Policy IC78-10R5: Accepts digital files for CRA and Revenu Québec audits.
Taxation Act (Quebec): Requires electronic retention for QST and tax filings.
Financial Administration Act (Quebec): Establishes rules for secure digital retention.
PIPEDA: Protects personal and corporate financial data stored digitally.

Key Court Decisions

Les Ailes de la Mode v. Quebec (2019): CRA confirmed scanned documents as valid.
Beaudoin v. Canada (2020): Required accessible electronic storage systems.
Caisse Populaire v. The Queen (2021): Recognized encrypted digital archives for CRA compliance.

Why CRA and Revenu Québec Promote Paperless Systems

Digital filing ensures accuracy, cost efficiency, and audit traceability. CRA prioritizes electronic systems for faster audits and lower fraud risk. Mackisen can assist you in converting records into secure cloud-based platforms that reduce costs and guarantee CRA compliance.

Mackisen’s Strategy

1. Record Digitization — Convert paper archives into encrypted digital systems.

2. Cloud Storage — Store files securely with CRA-approved encryption.

3. Audit Readiness — Create organized, accessible digital folders.

4. Retention Tracking — Automate record retention for six years.

5. Staff Training — Provide guidance on digital filing best practices.

We Solve

Mackisen can assist you in going paperless to reduce expenses and improve compliance. A Quebec retailer saved $100,000 per year by replacing physical storage with secure digital archives. A Montreal accounting firm shortened audit preparation time by 45% with CRA-verified electronic systems.

Common Questions

Can CRA refuse digital files? No, if properly stored and encrypted.
Can I dispose of paper documents? Yes, after secure scanning.
Does going paperless save money? Yes, through automation and efficiency.

Why Mackisen

Mackisen CPA Auditors Montreal installs CRA-compliant digital systems that enhance security, cut costs, and simplify audits. Call Mackisen CPA Auditors Montreal today for your 2025 Paperless Consultation. The first meeting is free and ensures your business meets CRA and Revenu Québec digital standards.