Fall Federal Budget: Will Spending Be Cut?

Canada has historically presented an annual budget since Confederation in 1867, even through periods like World Wars and the Great Depression, but we have recently experienced the longest period without a full federal budget in our history. By the time the next one is brought down, expected in October 2025, it will have been 18 months since the controversial April 2024 budget which introduced the doomed capital gains inclusion rate hikes. What can we expect?

An overwhelming majority of Knowledge Bureau poll respondents, 93%, believe investors should harvest tax losses in 2022 to recover taxes paid on capital gains declared in the past three years.  It’s an interesting question, however, because in some cases it might be the right thing to do; in others not.  Most professionals reflected this sentiment in their comments.

Do you like working numbers and have an aptitude to solve problems?  Do you love working with people? It may be the right time to change course and embrace a new career path in the tax accounting industry.  It can be financially rewarding, too.  An accountant with 0-3 year's experience living in Alberta is making on average $70,538, according to the latest Robert Half Salary Guide. A senior tax accountant in Toronto is making over $100,000.

Knowledge Bureau is pleased to announce that two of its designation programs qualify for IIROC Credits:  The RWM™ (Real Wealth Manager) Designation qualifies for 20 PD credits and the MFA-P™ (Philanthropy) designation provides 20 PD and 3 Compliance Credits.

Here’s a proactive conversation starter with your clients this month: a tax filing and benefits milestones chart!  It’s a great way to ensure your clients can cash in on generous benefits from the government and a chance to remind your clients how important filing tax returns really can be. 

To incorporate or not incorporate, that is the question… a very common question that small business owners ask their trusted advisor.  There are so many variables that come into play in this decision, so the answer is, it depends!  Read on as we consider the factors to consider with a small business owner.  Only then should the transition from sole proprietor or partnership to a Canadian Controlled Private Corporation (CCPC) be taken. 

In a time of high inflation, and high debt, Canadians are paying attention to the economic messages they are receiving from government.  According to a recent poll by Ipsos, Canadians are in fact having mixed feelings on the most recent November 3, 2022 Fall Economic Report and Mini-budget, which was followed the next day with Explanatory Notes to a 169-page Ways and Means Motion that amends the Income Tax Act for new measures.