Alberta AT1 Returns: Most Common Oversights

Overlooking key details when filing an Alberta Corporate Income Tax Return (AT1) can lead to processing delays. The Alberta government has published a video about the top ten oversights when filing Corporate Income Taxes (CIT) in Alberta to help preparers file the AT1 return correctly.

To ensure a smooth filing experience, do not overlook these ten key details: 

1. Update Corporation Information: Update corporation information prior to completing the return.
2. Verify Payment Application: Confirm that any tax payments made have been applied to the correct tax year-end. Sign in to your TRA Client Self-Services (TRACS) account to view payment details and initiate a transfer or request if needed. To enroll in TRACS, visit alberta.ca/TRA-client-self-service.
3. AT1 Schedules 12–21: Complete these schedules only if a corporation claims a difference between federal and provincial taxable income and maintains different discretionary claims or pool balances between federal and provincial jurisdictions. Do not file Schedules 12 through 21 if the corporation does not maintain these differences.
4. Double-Check Registration: Is the corporation registered in Alberta? If not, the corporation must be registered by a registry agent. You can find a local agent at alberta.ca/registry-agents. The corporate access number, found in the company’s incorporation documents, is the corporate account number for tax purposes. If the corporation is amalgamated, make sure to enter the most recent account number on the return.
5. Exact Business Name: On line 10, enter the corporation’s name EXACTLY as it is registered. Accuracy improves processing time.
6. Precise Tax Year Information: Make sure to enter the tax year beginning and end dates accurately on lines 36 and 37 for the period covered.
7. Current Contact Information: Ensure your contact information and mailing address are current. You can update your contact information by signing in to your TRACS account or by contacting the TRA.
8. File Only Relevant Additional Schedules: Alberta has various additional schedules. Only complete the ones that directly pertain to the corporation’s situation. For example, Schedules 12–21 are ONLY required if the corporation claims a difference between federal and provincial income. Do not file them otherwise. You can find a complete list of schedules at alberta.ca/corporate-income-tax.
9. Complete All Required Fields: Leaving required fields blank can cause processing delays. Ensure all required fields are completed. 
10. Avoid Duplicate Filing: If you file the AT1 return electronically, do not send a duplicate paper or email copy. The electronic version is sufficient, and multiple submissions for the same tax year-end can lead to processing delays.

The Government of Alberta provides comprehensive information regarding corporate income tax. Visit alberta.ca/corporate-income-tax for additional resources.