Immediate Expensing Rules: Good Tax Policy?

Over the course of the last two federal budgets (April 16, 2024 and November 4, 2025), the rules for claiming Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) have been uncertain. The proposal to extend immediate expensing rules for certain acquired assets were paused for over a year and then re-introduced in a series of four complex measures which together with new rules for Scientific Research and Experimental Development have become known as the “Productivity Super-Deduction”.  A backdrop appears below. The key question: will this complexity be effective as an economic stimulator?   

According to a recent survey, more than 56% of Canadians do not plan to contribute to an RRSP this year and an additional 12% are unsure if they will.  That potentially means that more than two thirds of Canadians could be at risk of overpaying their taxes or worse, having important social benefits clawed back in this second year of the pandemic. Tax and financial advisors can help by preparing “what if scenarios” before the March 1 contribution deadline.

Tired of long hours on hold with CRA? There’s good news, CRA has extended call center hours and call back services.  While CRA is advising people to go to their website before calling, they’ve also contracted with a third party to help with general questions about pandemic supports. Will these changes help improve service standards for tax season?

The next three months of 2021 are chocked full of important tax filing milestones.  Be sure you help your clients mark their tax calendars and schedule a virtual or phone meeting with you.  Here’s a handy tax milestones calendar from Knowledge Bureau.

Given the financial stress people are under during the second wave, should governments suspend audit activities and waive penalties and interest in 2021”? That was last month’s poll question and an overwhelming 75% said yes. However, of those who said no, there were some strong words of disapproval:

In our 18th year, we are excited to officially welcome you to pre-registration opportunities to Knowledge Bureau’s annual strategic educational conference for professionals in the tax, accounting, bookkeeping, and financial services.   

Canadian groundhogs may have mixed opinions on whether or not it’s going to be a long winter. But on a year that has often felt like we’re experience the Groundhog Day phenomenon, we decided to bring you our best sale of the year so far to ensure there’s something to celebrate – and you can still take advantage of this today! Take any two certificate courses for only $595 each (save 34%) – but act fast, as this promotion ends today! Use this proficiency guide for individuals and business training needs to select your next courses!