CRA still generally accepts backdated GST JV (s. 273) elections
In P-187 dated October 16, 1997 respecting the GST joint venture election, CRA states that “as a result of the requirement that an effective date be specified, the participants in the joint venture may complete the election form after the fact.” CRA has dealt with this point in more detail, in the context of a co-ownership arrangement that qualifies as a joint venture, stating:
Where in a particular fact situation, there is a valid operator, it can be clearly established that a joint venture exists for purposes of the section 273 election, and the parties were acting as if the election were in place, a back-dated election can be made that dates back to the date of the written co-ownership arrangement.
Neal Armstrong. Summaries of 26 February 2015 CBA Roundtable, Q. 15 under ETA s. 273(4), s. 156(4).