Tax Avoidance, Financial Stress & Well Being

Earlier this month, Statistics Canada published a report titled Stretching the Loonie: a time series analysis of financial difficulty and quality of life. The report is based on a nation-wide survey and the results are concerning. They reveal a serious trend and it is possible this is contributing to the late filing trend we are seeing this tax season.

"If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart." Arabic Proverb

The CSB is officially obsolete, killed by the March 22, 2017 federal budget. What effect does this have on investors? Some new planning strategies are in order for planners and clients alike.  But first a little history...

The Disability Tax Amount, a non-refundable tax credit valued at $8,001 in tax year 2016, can be claimed by someone who is markedly restricted in the activities of daily living on a permanent basis, or by their supporting individual.

Last week’s federal budget proposed to improve access to education funding with a series of new initiatives including improved access to bonds, loans and grants. Planning for student debt repayment, however, should be a critical first step with students, alongside the application process. Tax and financial planners can be of important assistance.

The prescribed interest rates for April 1 to June 30, 2017, remain unchanged on overdue taxes and tax overpayments, and for calculations of taxable benefits and shareholder loans. However, the interest rates on PLOI—Pertinent Loans or Indebtedness—have been changed this quarter.

In the recent federal budget, the federal government continued its commitment to supporting and funding innovation to grow Canada’s economy and build a strong middle class. There is evidence all around us that technology is fueling new enterprises all over the globe, in what has become known as “the sharing economy.”