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? We put that question to our readers last months and as usual, their comments were insightful:
As a proud Knowledge Bureau Designate, you've earned more than a credential—you’ve earned trust, credibility, and the distinction of being part of a nationally recognized network of leading professionals. To maintain your active status and continue enjoying the full benefits of your designation, it’s important to complete your annual re-licensing requirements by June 30. Not a Designate? Join this growing group of professional advisors in the tax, accounting and financial services. Learn more about the VIP Grad experience too!
Business owners are facing unprecedented uncertainty as they approach retirement. Whether it’s fluctuating business valuations, changing tax policy, or succession challenges, today’s entrepreneurs need specialized, forward-thinking advice to navigate their financial future. That’s why the “Retirement Income Planning for Small Business Owners” session—delivered by Doug Nelson as part of the CE Savvy Summit on May 21, 2025—remains a critical learning opportunity for tax and financial advisors working with entrepreneurial clients. Missed the live event? Now it’s available on-demand! This session provides full access to the recordings, materials, and CE assessments — making it easier than ever to earn credits and sharpen your advisory edge at your own pace.
As Canada’s head office economy continues to contract, the responsibility for economic growth, innovation, and leadership is increasingly falling to small- and mid-sized businesses. This shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. And, it’s exactly why the DMA – Small Business Services Specialist Program should be a critical part of your professional development library. Designed to equip professionals with the tools to support sustainable business growth and succession, this online designation program prepares you to develop leadership skills from the ground up as Corporate Canada is experiencing a disturbing trend. Here’s more:
Advisors often promote holding corporately owned insurance policies because it provides clients with the ability to fund their policies using lower corporate tax dollars. Proceeds are also received tax free on death. But there are important pitfalls, says Leanne Rodrigo, CPA, CA, a special guest Faculty Member at the Acuity Conference for Distinguished Advisors (DAC), November 23-26, 2025 in beautiful Puerto Vallarta. Early bird registration ends June 30 . There are many things to think about:
As Canada transitions into a new economic era under the new government's evolving tax policies, financial professionals face unprecedented challenges and opportunities. To navigate this shifting landscape, staying informed isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. That's why CE Summits – Advisory Diploma is a must-attend professional program for tax advisors, financial planners, and professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional value to their clients amongst complexity. These sessions are led by expert faculty Evelyn Jacks, Doug Nelson, Carol Willes and Ruth Horst on May 21 – register by the May 15 early-bird deadline!
With the personal tax filing deadline behind us, now is the time for a second look—especially when it comes to medical expense claims and eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Many Canadians with disabilities, or those who care for them, may have overlooked or under-claimed important tax benefits during the initial rush to file. Post-tax season is the perfect opportunity to review, adjust, and plan for maximum tax efficiency going forward. One area worth special attention is the intersection of attendant care expenses and the DTC—a combination that, if not claimed carefully, can leave tax savings on the table.
Do you believe Canada’s tax system based, on self-assessment, has suffered under recent changes at CRA and by Finance Canada? If so, what is the one wish you have for tax reform?