Immediate Expensing Rules: Good Tax Policy?

Over the course of the last two federal budgets (April 16, 2024 and November 4, 2025), the rules for claiming Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) have been uncertain. The proposal to extend immediate expensing rules for certain acquired assets were paused for over a year and then re-introduced in a series of four complex measures which together with new rules for Scientific Research and Experimental Development have become known as the “Productivity Super-Deduction”.  A backdrop appears below. The key question: will this complexity be effective as an economic stimulator?   

While there were few personal tax changes in last month’s Federal Budget, many seniors and their families may be affected to some degree by the adjustments made to GST/HST Canada. The paper burden has also been reduced for businesses who offer Pension Plans, including Pooled Retirement Pension Plans, or deal with the Governor General. 

Tax changes for asset purchases will be introduced for 2013 and beyond – allowing taxpayers a more significant Capital Cost Allowance deduction in some cases – in an attempt by the federal government to stimulate the manufacturing sector.

I held 200 shares of Kraft Foods in my non-registered investment account. Kraft split into Kraft Foods and Mondelez International. I now have 66 shares of Kraft and 200 of Mondelez. I noticed that my T5 slip is indicated that I received a foreign dividend of over $3,000. Is this a taxable dividend? I didn't receive any cash and the value of the two shares together were more or less the same. Please advise as this is a nasty shock. 

For owners of small businesses who pay themselves with dividends, the changes to the gross-up and dividend tax credit rates for 2013 will mean that the tax-free zone will decrease from its current level of about $42,500 for single taxpayers in 2013 to about $35,000 in 2014. 

Home office expenses are common for the self-employed; some employees may claim them too, when their employer signs Form T2200 to confirm this requirement. These claims are often audited so be sure to know the rules.

Family business owners typically have most of their net worth tied up in their business. Finding solutions to properly structure the business to allow it to flourish while allowing owners and their families to plan for their future can be difficult, especially if there is little time to explore strategies. This book will outline the options available to the family to ensure they know how to protect one of their most valuable assets.