Knowledge Bureau Poll: Tax Cut Doesn’t Cut It!

The Notice of Ways and Means Motion was released on May 27, but the 1% tax rate cut going into effect on July 1, didn’t cut it with Knowledge Bureau Report readers who responded to our May Poll.  A decisive 90% of respondents said “No” when asked: does the new government’s promise to cut the lowest personal income tax rate by 1% to 14%, (14.5% in 2025) go far enough to help Canadians impacted by high costs?  Here were their comments and suggested alternatives based on real life experiences with the after-tax income their struggling clients are left with:

"If you want to succeed you should strike out on new paths, rather than travel the worn paths of accepted success." John D. Rockefeller

Employees who are leaving their jobs and who receive job termination payments or retiring allowances should do some tax planning, perhaps with RRSP contributions and other income splitting or deferral options.

Manitoba’s new government released its first provincial budget on May 31st, announcing three important personal tax changes that signal a change in direction from the previous regime. Small business in Manitoba also got enhancements to three tax credits.

There are two tax filing deadlines this month: June 15 and June 30; and they affect five different taxpayer profiles between them. Do you know which ones might apply to you?

Other than the recording and documentation of business expenses, the most common area that causes problems for proprietors is the claiming of mixed-use expenses.

With Fort McMurray residents slowly returning home to rebuild, Knowledge Bureau is pleased to make a donation of $11,250 on behalf of its students and staff.  In addition, CRA announced special taxpayer relief for victims.