Please note that the following document, although believed to be correct at the time of issue, may not represent the current position of the Department.
Prenez note que ce document, bien qu'exact au moment émis, peut ne pas représenter la position actuelle du ministère.
RESPONSE TO A CBC CLIP ON WINNINGS OF TOP CURLERS
In a CBC clip discussing a curling 'skins' game, where the total purse can be as much as $150,000, a reporter indicated that Revenue Canada treats curling prize money like lottery windfalls which are tax-free. The source of this comment is not provided, however, the Department's view is that any hobby or activity undertaken in a business-like manner that has a reasonable expectation of profit is treated as a business and is taxable. Curlers involved in such high stakes games would likely have a reasonable expectation of profit and would not be in receipt of tax-free windfalls. Curlers are treated no differently than any other individual.
R. Albert
957-2100
December 11, 1996