The CRA TSlip Saga: An Update

This tax season has been particularly challenging for both taxpayers and tax professionals. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides tax information slips—such as T3, T4, T5, and their variations—through secure online portals: My Account and Represent a Client (RAC). This year, there were lots of problems with these portals, and now, it appears, CRA is not being quite transparent about when the slips were actually visible to clients and that doesn’t seem fair. Here’s an update on where we stand now.

Exactly when can a claim be made for Guaranteed Income Supplements (GIS)? Many seniors who qualify for Old Age Security may, in fact, be able to make a further claim for the GIS. But there is some income testing to be aware of. Astute tax and financial advisors can help, thereby providing invaluable advice.

Canadian personal debt levels are now at such an alarming level, that most Canadians can’t even comprehend the size of the rising figure: $2 Trillion, as of last week. As part of their best interest duties to clients, financial advisors need to broach this uncomfortable subject, as things could get worse in the near future.

The June 15 tax filing deadline for unincorporated businesses is coming up soon. The “gig” economy is a vibrant, growing market - especially for millennials - but many have trouble connecting with credentialed professionals to provide them with sound tax filing and planning advice. Now there is a win-win solution.

One third of Canadian retirees are in debt to the tune of $19,000, on average. In fact, more retirees are returning to the workforce to address these debt levels and improve standards of living later in life. Now more than ever, especially with interest rates on mortgages and tax debt rising, addressing debt management is an integral part of professional tax accounting and financial planning services.

Is it still a good idea for snowbirds to own property in the U.S.? Do you have clients who have children studying in the States or a son or daughter marrying a U.S. citizen? How will Canadian small business tax reforms co-mingle with the most significant U. S. tax reform since 1986?

MAY 2018 – Evelyn Jacks, President of Knowledge Bureau, and special guest experts will discuss tax-efficient planning for investors, retirees, cottage owners and private corporations at CE Summits held in four cities. Enrol by May 15. Or, begin convenient new online programs to improve your credentials. Great tuition savings for those who enroll online by June 15, or call us toll free for help: 1-866-953-4768.