A principal role of the department is assisting the government in the development of its annual budget.

[5] The day-to-day operations of the department are directed by the deputy minister of finance (a public servant).

[7] The department is headquartered in the James Michael Flaherty Building in downtown Ottawa at the corner of Elgin and Albert.

The Department of Finance Canada plays a key role in developing financial policies that impact various sectors, including maritime industries.

Programs supporting economic activities in marine transportation and recreational boating have been linked to tax policies and financial incentives.