No More Sworn Testimony, But Audits Are Still Stress Inducing

“That” Phrase: it’s one no taxpayer wants to hear – digitally or otherwise. “You’re being audited.” If you’ve had to deliver that news you’ll know that the reaction can range from indignity to shock to panic. Based on the latest piece of legislation before Parliament, you might have to tell more of your clients to buckle up, it’s going to be a bumpy ride. CRA will now have greater powers. Consider this:

Statistics released on February 14, 2020 by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) show that national home sales declined by 2.9% between December 2019 and January 2020, but prices are poised to rise later in the year.  This could therefore be a good time to buy that first home, especially with the help of the enhanced RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan.  For these reasons, some of your clients may still be interested in topping up their plans before March 2 RRSP contribution deadline.

Changes announced by Bank of Canada last week will make getting a mortgage easier for new home buyers in Canada as of April 6, 2020. It’s important for tax and financial advisors to understand the new guidelines in order to assist Canadians with sound debt management strategies.

It’s Leap Year 2020, and it's a day that only comes around once every four years. So, do something remarkable with your education by gaining new credentials to earn a second or independent income, or shore up the skills in your independent practice. But hurry! Take advantage of our Leap Year tuition offer by February 29 to save $595 on any two certificate courses. Our graduates share insights on our four recommended areas of specialization that they believe are Leap Year worthy.

Are financial professionals having the conversations required to prepare clients for Black Swan events that could dramatically change balance sheet valuations? That requires acuity – a sharpness of thought and vision - the theme of this year’s Distinguished Advisor Conference in Niagara Falls, October 28-30.  We are now inviting proposals on topics to be delivered by sponsors and partners to the event. Here’s why you should join us.

Is it better to invest your money into your TFSA or RRSP? It’s a choice many have to make between now and the March 2 deadline for RRSP contributions.  The date is important because missing it means you could miss out on increased Canada Child Benefits, or be subject to an expensive clawback of EI or OAS benefits.  We’ve done some calculations for you so here’s what you need to know:

It is definitely a retirement haven,  and up until February 18th,  BC was somewhat of a tax haven as well.  Unfortunately, the top 1% of income earners in BC will pay $216 million more taxes starting January 1, 2020, as a result of yesterday’s provincial budget.  The top tax rate and income bracket has increased 3.7% from 16.8% to 20.5% on taxable incomes over $220,000.  This is a change that will affect marginal tax rates on various income sources, including retirement income, and taxable income on final returns of deceased taxpayers, as shown below: