News Room

Seniors Targeted? The Tax Audits Begin

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) routinely reviews or audits tax filings, including personal, trust, corporate, and HST returns. The most common types of reviews that focus on personal tax returns include, but are not limited to, Pre-Assessment Reviews, Processing Reviews, and the Matching Program. This year there is a new focus: the Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit introduced to help families better care for their elders. But claiming it, like other tax benefits, comes with a tax snare. Read on to learn more.

Are All Income Sources Taxed Alike?

No, different income sources attract different marginal tax rates.

Charitable Donation Schemes and Proposed Legislation

Edwards v. The Queen.  A recent decision from the Federal Court of Appeal, Edwards v. The Queen (2012 FCA 330), contains interesting dicta regarding the Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) administration of proposed legislation in the last decade or so, with the presiding Justice JA John M. Evans declaring it “fundamentally unfair.” 

Combined Family Net Income is Required

You can have zero income and pay zero taxes but still receive refundable tax credits in Canada—simply by filing a tax return. But because many of these credits are based on “family” rather than “individual” net income, you and your spouse need to file tax returns together. 

Lifestyle Column: 10 Neat Things

This week: 10 neat things about plant senses.

People in the News: David Christianson’s Managing the Bull Hits Manitoba Bestseller List!

Knowledge Bureau Newsbooks added David Christianson to our bestsellers list last week.

Featured Book: MASTER Your Investment in the Family Business

Family business owners typically have most of their net worth tied up in their business. This book outlines the options available to the family to ensure they know how to protect one of their most valuable assets. Order by Feb. 18 and receive $5 off.
 
 
 
Knowledge Bureau Poll Question

Are your clients owed money by CRA? As of March 31, 2025, the CRA holds about 10.2 million uncashed cheques totalling $1.7 billion. In your view, why is this happening?

  • Yes
    18 votes
    66.67%
  • No
    9 votes
    33.33%