The Canada Revenue Agency says there are several warning signs indicating potential problems with a tax shelter:

> the tax shelter is promoting an opportunity to invest in high-yield offshore investments;

> to get in on the investment, investors must join an investment club, paying a one-time or annual fee. Membership will also require the signing a non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement;

> the investment will include participation in investment losses geared toward triggering a tax refund, or an arrangement that promises tax-free withdrawal from the investor’s RRSP;

> the funds are sent to the promoter, who will allegedly put them into offshore investments;

> the funds won’t be traceable. The promoter will promise that there are no taxes on investment earnings. — STEWART LEWIS