Finance Canada: No More Spring Budgets

Finance Canada announced on October 7 that Canada’s federal budgets will be brought down in the fall starting with the November 4, 2025 event; a significant departure from the spring schedule (February, March or April) that has been the cycle for several decades. This is going to affect many other events as we know them, and in the annual government spending approval cycle. There will also be a new budget process for capital vs. operational expenses. Here’s what you need to know:

In the midst of many provinces facing increased lockdown measures, the CRA has released new information, documentation and resources about Canada Emergency Response Benefit repayment and taxation. It has the potential to both aid and add to the complexity and confusion many are facing, particularly when it comes to the CERB.  Here is what you need to know:

Employees who use a cell phone in their work may be wondering about claiming costs as an employment expense.  CRA has some very complex rules to accompany the issue and  both employers and employees should be aware of them.  Here is a primer:

It turns out that the 74% of our December poll respondents who answered no to our question “Do you think that Canada is headed towards strong economic recovery in 2021?” were right: Canada is not yet poised for a strong economic recovery.  We’ll report on some of their reasons why, but also take note of new economic data.

Are you training new and returning staff working in independent tax filing firms? Perhaps you are  a CPA in public practice, a financial advisor, public trustee, legal or financial assistant, municipal officer, payroll or software company serving individuals and business owners with tax compliance?  Then don’t miss Knowledge Bureau’s acclaimed Advanced T1 Tax Update 2021 for 2020 T1 Returns.  Here’s what’s new in our innovative offerings this year:

With the dramatic increase in online transactions and digital solutions, and the challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic, clients require more frequent professional communications, improved collaboration between their financial professionals and more efficient processes in building wealth with all family stakeholders in a highly complex tax and investment environment. Differentiate yourself as a Real Wealth Manager™ to help with high value professional skills. Consider the following:

This year, the tax season will again be different, particularly with new rules stemming from pandemic benefits and tax credits and the complexity they have created for tax filers. And, lots has  changed at the CRA,  too. That’s why there is a great  opportunity for professionals and new entrants to the tax preparation market to improve their credentials during the continued lockdowns.