SoloS15April 10, 2026

CRA Is Calling Your Employees Behind Your Back

How electronic tips can create unexpected CPP and EI liabilities for employers – and why CRA may be gathering information from employees before contacting the business.

Show Notes

CRA may be calling your employees – not you – and asking questions about how tips are handled in your business.

Most owners don't even know this is happening.

And a court ruling many businesses have never heard of could mean payroll taxes on tips you thought weren't your responsibility.

In This Solo, We Cover:

• Why electronic tips are treated differently from cash tips

• How tips passing through your bank account create payroll tax exposure

• The court case that changed the rules for tipped businesses

• How CPP and EI can apply – even if you just pass tips through

• Common risk areas: tip pools, auto-gratuity, POS systems

• Why CRA may contact employees before contacting the business

This doesn't just affect restaurants – it applies to salons, spas, cafés, bars, and any business where tips flow through the employer.

And once CRA contacts your staff, some options – like voluntary disclosure – may already be off the table.

Most owners don't know this risk exists until it's too late.

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