The Bank of Canada calls it "home-equity extraction,” denoting the ability of homeowners to borrow against the steadily increasing value of their homes. These secured personal lines of credit (PLC) — secured by the borrowers' homes — have become a significant factor in the run-up of household debt since the late 1990s.

Raising children is a costly business and Canada Revenue Agency acknowledges this with deductions and tax credits available when you file your annual income tax return. Here are claims for your minor children that you and your tax preparer should be considering for 2011:

Canada's multi-faceted legal and economic structure allows Canadians to conduct business through three vehicles — sole proprietorship, incorporation or partnership. Each has its income tax implications, so when you are considering the appropriate business vehicle, be sure to balance the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Tax, financial planning and wealth management competencies are required to fund income and capital accumulation goals derived from investments. The advisor must use a strategy and a process geared to preserving, growing and transitioning wealth tax efficiently to the next generation, throughout the lifecycles of individuals within a family.

Tax is a trigger for affluent families. They seek credible, trusted, and expert solutions to their investment strategies and expect to work with professionals who can increase returns with tax efficiency.

             Enrol now and SAVE $200 until March 27, 2012

It's tax time and Canadians are turning their attention to filing their 2011 tax returns. That has put Knowledge Bureau President Evelyn Jacks — tax expert and author of Essential Tax Facts 2012 — in the news.