Blog

October 16, 2024

Another tax on properties isn’t the answer to Canada’s housing woes

Kim Moody: The rationale of a new tax on vacant land is so simplistic, it’s laughable. What is a great solution to many of our country’s […]
October 14, 2024

7 of the silliest and politically motivated tax policies recently introduced in Canada

Kim Moody: Politicians know that robbing Peter to pay Paul means they can always rely on the support of Paul.   Tax and politics are like […]
September 27, 2024

Taxpayer blames $500,000 misstep on accountant, but the CRA doesn’t bite

Jamie Golombek: Beware that you are still ultimately responsible for making sure your taxes are done currently if you hire an accountant to do them.   […]
September 4, 2024

5 ways the rich have an advantage over you

Peter Hodson: It takes money to make money, but once you have money, the advantages increase. Too many investors chase returns when looking for the big […]
September 4, 2024

There are many problems with CRA’s pursuit of Toronto Maple Leaf John Tavares

Last week, I shared details about the battle that Toronto Maple Leaf John Tavares is having with the Canada Revenue Agency. His story is important because […]
September 1, 2024

The maximum CPP pension future retirees could get is about to start changing in a big way

The maximum Old Age Security pension you can get in a given year is the same whether you retired recently or many years ago. The same is not […]
August 23, 2024

How to Qualify for a Mortgage in 2024

How to Qualify for a Mortgage in 2024 Buying a home or condo is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. There are tons of things […]
August 21, 2024

New rules for reporting bare trusts will spare a lot of families – why didn’t the government go this route to begin with?

New rules for reporting bare trusts will spare a lot of families – why didn’t the government go this route to begin with? There will be […]
August 21, 2024

Ottawa has softened its capital-gains tax hike. But it’s still not enough

Ottawa has softened its capital-gains tax hike. But it’s still not enough Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland speaks about changes to the […]
August 2, 2024

CRA battle shows what’s involved when you take on the taxman

CRA battle shows what’s involved when you take on the taxman Jamie Golombek is a veteran of CRA disputes. Here’s his latest dust-up over home-office expenses […]
July 9, 2024

Expect the CRA to come knocking if you ‘hire’ your spouse to split income

Expect the CRA to come knocking if you ‘hire’ your spouse to split income Jamie Golombek: While spousal employment relationships can be legitimate, tax agency will […]
July 3, 2024

Federal Budget Commentary 2024

Federal Budget Commentary 2024 On April 16, 2024, the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, presented Budget 2024 – Fairness for Every […]
June 29, 2024

CRA, courts clamp down on siblings who spent company funds on personal travel

One of the benefits often cited by small-business owners is the ability to write off various expenses for tax purposes. The misconception about what can be […]
April 30, 2024

4 tax-smart investment ideas that pack a punch even with the budget changes

Ted Rechtshaffen: These strategies can help many Canadians save tax every year A lot of attention has been paid to the changes made to capital gains tax […]
April 30, 2024

FP Answers: What are the tax consequences of selling a small business to my son?

Get the value appraised before you do anything It’s important to get your business properly valued before selling it, especially if the purchaser is a close […]
April 15, 2024

Top ways to put your tax refund to work for you

Instead of spending it immediately, why not put that money to work? The majority of Canadians receive a refund each year, and all that means is […]
April 15, 2024

What to know as RRSP reporting measure takes effect

Sign up for the Globe Advisor weekly newsletter for professional financial advisors on our sign-up page. Get exclusive investment industry news and insights, the week’s top headlines, […]
April 15, 2024

A single act of courage is needed to fix Canada’s tax system, but this government won’t do it

Kim Moody: Tax reform and review needs to happen to counter the negative consequences of our tax system being tipped over Has the overall Canadian tax […]
April 6, 2024

CRA no longer requiring tax return for bare trusts this year

Canadians with bare trust arrangements, such as a co-signed mortgage or joint bank account, won’t be required to comply with new tax-reporting requirements for 2023. The Canada […]
March 4, 2024

2024 Alberta Budget Summary

On February 29, 2024, Alberta Minister of Finance Nate Horner announced the 2024 Alberta Budget. The Budget aims to strengthen health care, education and communities, manage […]
January 2, 2024

CRA may tax company gifts to employees, depending on what it is and how much it’s worth

Have you received a gift from your employer this holiday season? Depending on what you got, and its value, that gift may be tax free, or […]
December 5, 2023

CRA admits it paid out $63M in ‘sham’ tax refund scheme

$1.1B identified in carousel frauds, agency says The Canada Revenue Agency says funds were wired overseas by participants in a scheme that deprived the treasury of […]
November 30, 2023

Size of TFSA contribution limit rises for 2nd year in a row

Canadians will again be able to put more into their tax-free savings accounts in 2024, according to Finance Canada. The department confirmed in a statement to […]
November 2, 2023

Underused Housing Tax penalties could spook many homeowners on Oct. 31

Canadians’ tax burden isn’t actually that high. But it tilts toward income taxes levied at steep rates. Using the GST more would help Do you think […]
October 31, 2023

Opinion: We’re not being taxed to death — it just feels that way

Canadians’ tax burden isn’t actually that high. But it tilts toward income taxes levied at steep rates. Using the GST more would help Do you think […]
October 3, 2023

Canadians Can Receive Financial Payments From These Federal Benefits & Credits In October

Canadians Can Receive Financial Payments From These Federal Benefits & Credits In October he Government of Canada has a number of benefits, payments and credits that will be sent out […]
September 26, 2023

What is the best place to retire in Canada, income-wise?

What is the best place to retire in Canada, income-wise? Your after-tax income in retirement depends on the strategy you choose in drawing income from different […]
May 17, 2023

How changes to Canada Pension Plan benefits affect your wallet today and retirement tomorrow

How changes to Canada Pension Plan benefits affect your wallet today and retirement tomorrow Whether you’re an employee or self-employed, you are required to contribute to […]
April 27, 2023

Nine ways to prevent triggering a CRA tax audit

Nine ways to prevent triggering a CRA tax audit Sign up for the Globe Advisor weekly newsletter for professional financial advisors on our newsletter sign-up page. […]
April 18, 2023

Commentary on the Federal Budget 2023

On March 28, 2023, the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, presented Budget 2023 – A Made-in-Canada Plan: Strong Middle Class, Affordable […]
April 17, 2023

Ottawa is offering a 25-year, high-interest GIC: It’s called the Canada Pension Plan

Jason Heath: Decision on when to apply for CPP becomes clearer when you think of it as an investment, not income The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) […]
April 6, 2023

Government of Canada Introduces Amendments to Foreign Buyer Ban

Amendments to Foreign Buyer Ban On Monday, the Government of Canada announced a series of amendments to the foreign buyer ban — officially called the Prohibition […]
April 6, 2023

Federal budget 2023: Ottawa targets high-income earners with increased minimum tax

Canada’s top income earners are in for a steep hike to their tax bills under measures proposed in the 2023 budget. The government plans to tighten […]
February 10, 2023

Sophisticated Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) scams circulating ahead of tax season

Tax season is around the corner and fraudsters are already ramping up their attacks against Canadians. Some of this year’s scams are very sophisticated-looking email links […]
February 8, 2023

The Canada Revenue Agency Announced Major Changes That Could Affect Your 2022 Taxes

As tax season fast approaches, navigating this time of year is no easy feat and with new changes outlined by the Canada Revenue Agency — it can sometimes feel too […]
February 1, 2023

ACCOUNTING EXPLAINED TO KIDS

WHY DO WE NEED IT? The company has to make sure it has enough money. To pay for things it needs like rent and payroll for […]
January 28, 2023

Splitting income with family can save meaningful tax dollars

When my kids were young, they could often give me a splitting headache. As they got older, they began to give me opportunities for splitting income […]
January 19, 2023

Six tips to cut your spending, bust your debt and increase your money in 2023

From inflation to high interest rates and a possible recession, this year is off to a rough start for most Canadians, moneywise. But here’s a silver lining: The […]
January 19, 2023

CRA clawing back $3.2B from suspect COVID-19 aid payments, but that’s just the start

Officials say the agency has already discovered about 25,000 cases of fraudulent payments tied to identity theft, ‘a scale we haven’t seen in the past’ OTTAWA […]
November 17, 2022

Restructuring: 7 tips for restoring business profitability

Follow these tips to breathe new life into your business A rapid market shift, disruptive technology, a more challenging performance target, unpredictable regulatory changes…several situations can […]
August 9, 2022

Increase to the Old Age Security pension for seniors aged 75 years and older begins next week

From: Employment and Social Development Canada News release July 21, 2022              Gatineau, Quebec              Employment and […]
August 6, 2022

If you owe the CRA money, pay up as soon as possible because the prescribed rate is rising again

Jamie Golombek: Here’s what you should be doing in anticipation of the looming interest rate increase Interest rates continue to rise. As a result, this week […]
August 6, 2022

Canada’s Tax Authority Has Been On A Multi-Billion Dollar Real Estate Crackdown

Canadian real estate owners are stuck paying a buttload in penalties after trying to avoid taxes owed. New data from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) shows their crackdown […]
June 24, 2022

Taxpayer hit with a TFSA over contribution penalty takes the CRA to court

Jamie Golombek: CRA can cancel penalty if it determines overcontribution a ‘reasonable error,’ withdrawn ‘without delay’ Despite the flexibility of the tax-free savings account (TFSA), from […]
June 4, 2022

Cash may be king, but it can cause headaches if the taxman denies your claims

Jamie Golombek: With no records, the burden of proof is certainly higher as this ‘independent spirit’ from PEI found out It’s often said that cash is […]
May 26, 2022

The top reasons why the CRA may review or audit tax returns

Are you a professional financial advisor? Register for Globe Advisor and then sign up for the new weekly newsletter on our newsletter sign-up page. Get exclusive investment industry news […]
May 26, 2022

The case of the taxpayer who was dinged with a taxable benefit for taking a business trip

Almost four in 10 mortgage holders are going to receive a crash course in the economics of rising interest rates. A Calgary ‘land flipper’ was handed […]
May 18, 2022

Tax Tips and Traps 138, 2022 – 2nd Quarter

Tax Tidbits Some quick points to consider… The luxury tax affecting new vehicles and aircraft retailing for more than $100,000 and new boats over $250,000 has […]
April 25, 2022

Who should worry about the wave of rate increases this year, who shouldn’t and what every stressed-out borrower should do right now

Almost four in 10 mortgage holders are going to receive a crash course in the economics of rising interest rates. A Calgary ‘land flipper’ was handed […]
April 15, 2022

What you need to know about the tax consequences of earning and spending loyalty points

If your points come from either business travel or using a personal credit card to pay for business expenses, you need to be aware of the […]
April 15, 2022

Federal Budget Commentary 2022

On April 7, 2022, the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, the HonourableChrystia Freeland, presented Budget 2022: A Plan to Grow Our Economyand Make Life More […]
April 9, 2022

Jamie Golombek: What tax changes might be coming up in the federal budget

You might want to act now on at least one of these potential changes A Calgary ‘land flipper’ was handed a 15-month conditional sentence and a […]
April 2, 2022

Calgary land flipper sentenced for evading taxes on $7.5M sale

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story listed an incorrect amount that the parcel of land was bought for. We regret the error. A Calgary […]
April 2, 2022

Federal government to release budget on April 7

Budget expected to account for new uncertainties following the Russian invasion of Ukraine The federal government will table its next annual budget on Thursday, April 7 […]
March 25, 2022

You’ve got questions about the CRA’s principal residence exemption, we’ve got answers

Jamie Golombek: CRA’s recent crackdown on perceived abuse of the PRE has sparked a barrage of reader interest Canada Revenue Agency’s recent crackdown on perceived abuse of […]
March 21, 2022

What you need to know as the CRA cracks down on principal residence exemptions

Jamie Golombek: For a property to qualify as your principal residence, four criteria must be satisfied If you sold your principal residence in 2021, you need […]
March 7, 2022

Inside a little-known tax ‘loophole’ experts say is helping rich Canadians avoid millions in taxes

Inside a little-known tax ‘loophole’ experts say is helping rich Canadians avoid millions in taxes The CRA has reassessed at least three companies, one owned by […]
February 26, 2022

It’s about time for this crazy RRSP rule to change

It’s about time for this crazy RRSP rule to change Some laws don’t make much sense. If you’re thinking of climbing a tree on municipal property […]
February 22, 2022

Seven ways to get a bigger tax refund

Seven ways to get a bigger tax refund Did you know that 70 per cent of individuals get a refund? The remaining 30 per cent either […]
February 22, 2022

Changing Compilation Engagement Standards

Changing Compilation Engagement Standards As your trusted advisors we want to inform you of changes that will impact the compilation engagement(s) (informally known as a “Notice […]
February 14, 2022

Pattie Lovett-Reid: What millennials need to know about retirement savings

Start saving early and save often. I know you have already heard this before but I do think it is worth repeating, and here’s why: it […]
January 21, 2022

Tax Tips and Traps – 2022 1st Quarter

Tax Tidbits Some quick points to consider… The annual TFSA limit for 2022 remains at $6,000. As such, if an individual has never contributed and has […]
January 2, 2022

A new year and new hike to CPP premiums – the largest in three decades – to hit Canadians

It is the second year in a row of higher-than-usual increases for CPP Aside from inflationary prices at the check-out, Canadians will see more pandemic-related hits […]
December 31, 2021

Why cash isn’t always the best gift, especially when it comes to your kids

Instead of giving your children a gift of cash, pay an expense for them Research has shown that when young children give a gift to someone, […]
December 14, 2021

Personal Income Tax Guide: The deadline for filing your 2021 return, tax brackets and more

Don’t miss the deadline to file your tax return! Our 2021 income tax guide for Canadians is here to help. The year 2021 has been a […]
December 13, 2021

Pattie Lovett-Reid: Your financial action plan for 2022

I’m that person who makes New Year’s resolutions every year. But what if we decided to make changes to our financial situation today? Where do you […]
December 9, 2021

Year End TAX Planning 2021

YEAR-END TAX PLANNING December 31, 2021 is fast approaching… see below for a list of tax planning considerations. Please contact us for further details or to […]
October 25, 2021

Employees should consider these strategies before year-end to pay less tax

I recall years ago hearing about a teacher in New York who, by his own admission, had spent about 12 of the previous 15 years not working – […]
September 24, 2021

How recent tax changes and rulings may affect your stock option purchases

Jamie Golombek: Court case demonstrates dangers of what can happen when an employee exercises stock options, but doesn’t sell them right away Employee stock options and […]
September 13, 2021

Tax Tips and Traps – 2021 – 3rd Quarter

TAXTICKLERS…somequickpointstoconsider… Access to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy(CERS) and Canada Recovery Benefits has been extended to October 23, 2021. A recent […]
July 21, 2021

Older seniors to get extra Old Age Security in the coming months

One-time $500 payment, plus extra 10% annually for those over age of 75 in 2022 comes on top of indexation adjustment.   Seniors may be in […]
April 21, 2021

Commentary on the Federal Budget 2021

A. Personal Measures COVID-19 Benefit Amounts – Tax Treatment Budget 2021 proposes to allow individuals the option to claim a deduction in respect of the repayment […]
March 30, 2021

Canadian Tax Planner

As the devastating economic consequences of the novel coronavirus pandemic started to emerge, the Bank of Canada hurriedly pushed through cuts to its key policy interest […]
March 30, 2021

Canadian Tax Planner

Death and Taxes – Tax Planning Opportunities and Pitfalls With the Canadian demographic aging and a health crisis sweeping the globe, many individuals are reflecting on […]
March 23, 2021

“That’s not a write-off” scene from Schitt’s Creek


March 23, 2021

Pattie Lovett-Reid: Don’t even think about trying to outsmart Canada Revenue Agency

 HUNTSVILLE, ONT. — As the April 30 tax filing deadline rapidly approaches, it isn’t wise to think you can outsmart the Canada Revenue Agency. They know where […]
March 13, 2021

Canadian Financial Planner

As the devastating economic consequences of the novel coronavirus pandemic started to emerge, the Bank of Canada hurriedly pushed through cuts to its key policy interest […]
March 1, 2021

There are new rules this tax season, courtesy of COVID-19. Here’s what you need to know

Those who worked from home may get money back while those who collected benefits may get tax bill. Heads up, Canadians: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, […]
February 13, 2021

Pattie Lovett-Reid: RRSP or TFSA, what’s right for you?

HUNTSVILLE, ONT. — The clock is ticking – RRSP or TFSA – you decided, but it’s a good idea to pick one of them. It is […]
January 20, 2021

CANADA PENSION PLAN: Costs are Increasing in 2021

The maximum pensionable earnings and contribution rate for 2021 have now been released and are a surprise to many; the cost of CPP is significantly increasing. […]
January 19, 2021

CPP: When to Apply?

While the normal age to begin receiving regular CPP is 65, individuals can apply to start receiving earlier at a cost, or later for a greater […]
January 16, 2021

2020 YE Tax Planning

SOME 2020 YEAR-END TAX PLANNING TIPS INCLUDE: 1)      Certain expenditures made by individuals by December 31, 2020 will be eligible for 2020 tax deductions […]
January 15, 2021

Pattie Lovett-Reid: Pandemic aid will need to be included when you file your taxes

Tax season is fast approaching and Canadians will be required to include the total amount of any aid they received from a number of government programs […]
December 17, 2020

Federal government has no plans for debt forgiveness over CERB confusion, says Qualtrough

Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough said today she feels “bad” for Canadians who applied for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit thinking that they met the minimum income requirement, only to […]
November 16, 2020

CRA extends work-from-home reimbursement to cover office equipment, not just computers

At the Canadian Tax Foundation’s annual conference held in late October, the Canada Revenue Agency provided a bit of good news when responding to a couple […]
August 17, 2020

WORKING FROM HOME: Reimbursing Employees for Technology Costs

In an April 14, 2020 French Technical Interpretation, CRA was asked whether amounts paid to an employee for costs of equipment for working remotely would be […]
July 15, 2020

Strapped for cash? How to uncover unclaimed money that may belong to you

There could be lost cheques, a dormant bank account or an inheritance waiting for you Strapped for cash during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the economic slowdown? […]
May 24, 2020

STARTING A BUSINESS AND NOT GETTING PAID: Can I collect EI?

STARTING A BUSINESS AND NOT GETTING PAID: Can I collect EI? In a January 10, 2020 Federal Court of Appeal case, the Court conducted a judicial review of […]
May 9, 2020

Can you deduct expenses if you’re forced to work from home in the pandemic?

Writer: JAMIE GOLOMBEK Tax Expert Financial Post Jamie Golombek, CPA, CA, CFP, CLU, TEP is the managing director, Tax & Estate Planning with CIBC Private Wealth […]
March 31, 2020

We are truly living in unique times

March 20, 2020

Tax deadline extended due to COVID-19 crisis

The federal government is giving Canadians more time to file and pay their taxes this year, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.   TORONTO — […]
March 3, 2020

‘It felt like winning the lottery’: Your unclaimed money could be a click away

No, this isn’t a scam: A new ‘uncashed cheques’ feature on the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website has Canadians cashing in. EDMONTON — No, this isn’t […]
February 25, 2020

Everything you need to know to file your taxes in 2020

If you purchased a home using the Home Buyers’ Incentive or were prescribed cannabis for medical use then you may be affected by changes to Canada’s […]
February 13, 2020

RRSP contribution deadline is March 2, 2020

RRSP March 2, 2020 is the deadline for contributing to an RRSP for the 2019 tax year. December 31 of the year you turn 71 years of age is the last day […]
February 1, 2020

Calgary widow forced to pay $270K to CRA

Calgary widow forced to pay $270K to CRA over beneficiary oversight Donna Phillips’ patience is wearing thin as she fights to have $270,000 in tax losses […]
January 24, 2020

Tax, Tips and Traps

TAX TICKLERS… some quick points to consider…   The amount of income an individual can earn without paying tax (basic personal amount) will begin increasing in […]
January 23, 2020

Your Shareholder Loan and the CRA

After reading this article you’ll understand what a shareholder loan is and how to use it.  You’ll also be aware of potential tax issues that can […]
January 23, 2020

2020 Deadlines

2020 Tax Due Dates for Canadians A new year is here and as diligent accountants (read: nerds), we’re already planning for 2020. To get the ball […]
January 3, 2020

Tax Changes Canadians Need to Know About for 2020

Written by: Sean Cooper When you look at your household budget, the amounts you’re spending on mortgage/rent, transportation and food are usually top of mind. While all […]
December 20, 2019

CPP Pension Users: 2 Crafty Ways to Avoid the 15% OAS Clawback

If you’re one of the many Canadians who are approaching retirement, you have probably heard of the Old Age Security (OAS) program. While the Canada Pension Plan […]