Poll Results: Canadians Remain Skeptical of the New Grocery Benefit

The federal government's new Canada Groceries and Essential Benefit is intended to help eligible Canadians cope with rising food prices and the increasing cost of everyday essentials. We asked our readers whether they believe it is the right solution to address inflation, and the response was decisive: 93% said "No," while just 7% said "Yes." 

Back to school time is just around the corner! For those who saved for future that includes post-secondary education, the tuition fees sting less when your high school graduate starts post-secondary school this fall. More can always be done, however to prepare families at the start of this journey. The benefits of the Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs), and other savings opportunities, is a good financial planning topic this summer. Here’s a primer:

The Acuity Conference for Distinguished Advisors (DAC) is Canada’s preeminent conference for advisors from the tax, financial services and it will be held in Victoria, B.C. November 22–24. Be sure to join one of Canada’s most unique multidisciplinary educational and networking experiences and save money by registering before September 30.  

Today’s financial advisors is an education, an advocate and a steward of client resources. But tax laws are in continuous flux, regulations evolve, and client expectations shift in response to complex life events. For today's advisors, continuing education isn't something that happens once a year to meet CE Credit requirements. It's an ongoing part of delivering confident, informed advice. That's where CE Master Micro-Credentials come in, together with a July 31 tuition offer.

It looks like tax season 2026 could be the biggest one we’ve seen in the history of filing in Canada, proving once more that Canadians are extremely tax compliant and that filing a personal tax return is the most important triggers for long term wealth planning in this country. But there is a shortage of qualified people and now is the time to do something about that before tax season 2027.

Women control an increasing share of global wealth. From 2018 to 2023, global wealth increased by an amazing 43% but women’s share increased by an even more impressive 50%. For financial advisors it means your female clients are going to be more important to your business than ever; for tax advisors, there is an opportunity to engage during important life events.  

Canadians may see a small increase in their take-home pay beginning in January 1, 2027 thanks to a reduction in Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contribution rates, but most people won’t notice a lot of new cash flow. However, this does represent a significant policy change. It’s one tax and financial advisors should consider, as it will affect payroll deductions, T4 reporting, and year end tax planning, especially in discussions about retirement options with clients.