Navigating Auto Expense Deduction at Year End: What Clients Need to Know
Doubtless you’ve had clients ask whether they can write off any portion of their vehicle for work or business purposes. And your answer, as always, is: “It depends.” The rules are worth reviewing at year end as they can vary significantly depending on how the client earns their income—employee, self-employed, or incorporated – and this is a deduction that’s often audited. Here’s a practical primer to guide that conversation.The Not-so-Great Tax Cut
“I’m proud to pay taxes but I could be just as proud for half the amount.” This quote from 1950’s American broadcaster Arthur Godfrey, highlights the classic government dilemma, currently the subject of a U.S. government shutdown that threatens the jobs of thousands of government workers: who pays for the debt government spending compounds? It’s a question Canadians will grapple with as well, as the November 4 Federal Budget approaches with. At issue? The wisdom of this 14% solution.
FHSA: The Positives and Negatives
Buying that first home is difficult but there is some good news. Recently costs of both homeownership and renting have dropped and interest rates are at a decent rate of around 4% in the month of October. There is also an excellent tax-assisted savings plan available to first time homebuyers – the FHSA – but here’s a problem: its importance is not being well communicated. This is where tax and financial professionals can help with some year end tax planning.
November 5 CE Savvy Summit: Budget Insights & Year-End Planning
The New Federal Budget is being tabled on November 4. Fortunately full analysis will be available the next day for tax and financial professionals at the November 5, 2025 CE Savvy Summit. Register now: this live virtual event, Year-End Tax Planning for Investors and Business Owners, delivers timely analysis alongside practical strategies for optimizing 2025 year-end results.
Networking, Celebrations, and Community at the 2025 Acuity Conference
The Acuity Conference for Distinguished Advisors isn’t just about education. it’s about connection. Alongside world-class keynotes and CE sessions, delegates will enjoy an outstanding line-up of networking experiences designed to celebrate excellence and build lasting professional relationships in an unforgettable setting.
CE Master Micro-Credentials: Learning That Works as Hard as You Do
In a profession where knowledge quickly evolves and client needs never stop, financial advisors need education that is practical, flexible, and credible. That’s exactly what CE Master Micro-Credentials deliver.
Tax Shock Adds to Family Heartbreak
Last month the sad story of an Ontario family who suddenly lost both parents in 2024 was shared in Burlington Today. The tax outcomes were just as shocking as the two deaths from unrelated causes. There was a cottage, a large RRSP and a big tax bill. Some of the outcomes could have been mitigated with some planning. I sat down with CTV’s Pat Foran to discuss the outcomes – with a message important to family planning.
