The Gateway:  Maximizing the Impact of the Disability Tax Credit

In addition to reducing income tax through a non-refundable credit, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) serves as a gateway to a wide range of additional tax benefits and government programs. Eligibility for the DTC can unlock enhanced credits, financial supplements, and long-term savings opportunities that go well beyond the tax return. Understanding how the DTC connects to these broader supports is essential for maximizing financial stability—both for individuals living with disabilities and the family members who support them.  Unfortunately, many taxpayers miss this credit and their tax and financial advisors can certainly help when this happens.

With the hope that it will assist taxpayers in determining the legality of their transactions before incurring significant costs, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and the Income Tax Rulings Directorate (ITRD) have announced a one-year pre-ruling consultation pilot project. 

The Department of Finance is seeking the input from Canadians on how to protect consumers in all areas of the marketplace.

The 2013 Federal Budget announced the phase-out of the Federal Labour Sponsored Venture Capital Funds Tax Credit (LSFTC) which will affect claims for taxation years 2015 and 2016.

It was a pleasure to participate in a live tax chat with Canadians from coast to coast before the holidays in an event hosted by MoneySense magazine. One of the interesting questions asked concerned the length of time contributors have to recover overpaid Canada Pension Plan premiums. 

With insurance and tax regulations becoming increasingly complex, some have been arguing for years that “strict liability offences” should provide a bit of relief for those who have trusted their affairs to professionals when regulations are complex and burdensome.

The allowable claim for the regular donation credit is calculated as follows, based on your qualified gifts which can include cash, publicly traded securities and mutual funds, life insurance policies, personal use property, capital property, depreciable assets, cultural and ecological gifts.