Restoring Your Not-for-Profit Corporation with Articles of Revival

Understanding the Articles of Revival (Form 4015) under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act

If you are involved with a not-for-profit corporation that has been dissolved but now seeks to restore its legal status, the Articles of Revival (Form 4015) is the official document you need to file with the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act (NFP Act). This form serves as a formal request to reinstate your corporation, effectively restoring it as if it had never been dissolved. Here, we will guide you through the purpose of this form, the preparation process, submission options, and what to expect during the review process.

Purpose of the Articles of Revival (Form 4015)

The primary purpose of Form 4015 is to request the revival of a corporation that was previously dissolved under the NFP Act. When approved, the revival restores the corporation's legal existence, allowing it to resume its activities without the need to incorporate anew. Importantly, the public record will reflect the corporation’s status as if it had not been dissolved, maintaining continuity in its legal and operational history. However, it's crucial to note that only the corporation's status is reinstated; any changes made after dissolution, such as amendments to bylaws or directorships, will not automatically be reflected in the revival process.

Preparing Your Application for Revival

Key Information Required

• Corporation Number: The unique identifier assigned to your corporation during registration.
• Corporate Name: The exact name of your corporation, including its official language version if applicable.
• Interest of the Applicant: The individual or entity requesting the revival, such as a director, officer, creditor, or other specified roles.
• Declaration of Applicant: A statement certifying that the revival request is made in good faith and for legal purposes.

Supporting Documents and Post-Revival Requirements

Once your application is approved, you will need to file any outstanding annual returns for the last two years, update the registered office address if it has changed, and report any modifications to the corporation’s directors. Ensuring these filings are up-to-date is essential for maintaining your corporation’s good standing post-revival.

Filing Options and Submission Procedures

The Articles of Revival (Form 4015) can be submitted either online through the official government platform or via paper mail. The online process is typically faster and more efficient, allowing you to upload scanned copies of the completed form and supporting documents. When submitting your application, ensure that all sections are completed accurately, particularly the corporation number and declaration sections, to avoid delays.

Review Process and Follow-up

After submission, the government reviews your application to verify the information provided and ensure compliance with legal requirements. The processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your submission. During this period, you may be contacted for additional information or clarification. Once approved, you will receive confirmation of the revival, and your corporation will be reinstated as if it had never been dissolved.

Important Legal Considerations

Making false or misleading statements on the Articles of Revival can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines or imprisonment. It is essential to certify the accuracy of all information provided and to understand that the revival process is a legal act intended to restore your corporation’s status legitimately.

Contacts and Additional Resources

If you need assistance with completing Form 4015 or understanding the revival process, contact the Corporations Branch of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). They can provide guidance on procedural requirements and help clarify any questions related to your specific situation.

Restoring a dissolved not-for-profit corporation is a significant step that requires careful preparation and adherence to legal procedures. Using the Articles of Revival form correctly ensures that your organization can resume its activities smoothly and in compliance with Canadian law.