Tax Avoidance, Financial Stress & Well Being

Earlier this month, Statistics Canada published a report titled Stretching the Loonie: a time series analysis of financial difficulty and quality of life. The report is based on a nation-wide survey and the results are concerning. They reveal a serious trend and it is possible this is contributing to the late filing trend we are seeing this tax season.

"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." C. S. Lewis

The annual TFSA contribution room is indexed to the consumer price index (CPI), but the contribution limit is increased only in increments of $500.

Indexation has increased the capital gains exemption available on the sale of qualified small business shares in 2017 by an additional $11,540, to $835,716. The capital gains exemption on the sale of qualified farm or fishing property remains at $1,000,000.

If December is moving month for you, three pieces of advice:  tax a deep breath, treat yourself to some extra eggnog, and keep those moving expense receipts handy.  They will be worth a lot of money when  you file your tax return.

Knowledge Bureau’s November poll was a no-doubter. An overwhelming majority of 87% answered yes to the question: “Do you agree that the new reporting changes for 2016 will result in significant audit activity on the disposition of principal residences?”

There is a growing demand for qualified tax specialists in the financial services sector. Knowledge Bureau’s DFA- Tax Services Specialist program™ will allow you to tap into this profitable career path and build your own professional practice. All it takes is six in-depth courses (180 hours) to earn your DFA-Tax Services Specialist™ designation, and you can get started immediately.