News Room

Confirmed:  The CCR for Small Business is Tax Free

Ottawa has confirmed that the CCR for Small Business received by eligible Canadian-controlled private corporations (CCPCs) will be tax free for the 2019-20 to 2023-24 fuel charge years, as will the final payment for the 2024-2025 fuel charge year.  Draft legislation was released on June 30, 2025 with this announcement; and will be introduced for law making in Parliament this Fall.   Some of the more significant details are discussed below.

The Tax Gap: It’s Complex

The fifth report on the tax gap – the difference between taxes payable if all taxpayer obligations were fully met and what was actually paid and collected – was released this week by CRA for the 2014 year. Focused on corporate tax filers, large and small, a shortfall has been estimated at between $9.4 billion and $11.4 billion, but a closer look at the report finds most individual and corporate taxpayers try their best to comply with Canada’s complicated tax system.

Tax Freedom Day - June 14, 2019

This year, Tax Freedom Day for Canadians fell on June 14, 2019; one day earlier than last year, but almost two months after the US reached the same milestone. The Fraser Institute calculated Canada’s 2019 Tax Freedom Day based on a household income of $117,731 with a 44.7% total tax bill.* This means that the average Canadian works 163 days each year to pay $52,675 in taxes, before they start making disposable income for themselves.

Affordable Homes and the New CMHC Rules

The 2019 Federal Budget introduced two changes aimed at making it easier for first-time home buyers to purchase a home in Canada. This is important due to the new mortgage stress test, and also raises other important questions should housing prices drop.

Keep Above Board with Real Estate Investments

The CRA recently released a notice that warns Canadians to be on the lookout for real estate investment schemes that promise a significant tax write-off—more than double what you invest. But the old adage rings true: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you have a client approach you about a great real estate investment, here’s what you need to know to provide them with sound, financial advice:

Save 10% on Tuition When You Study Online with a Buddy

Mentorship matters, and online studies offer a great opportunity for you to encourage the continuing development of your hard-working tax or financial services team. To support you in your business development pursuits, Knowledge Bureau is introducing a new “Study With a Buddy” enrolment offer.

Graduates in the News – Jim Gunn, CFP, RWM™

Knowledge Bureau graduate Jim Gunn of Ontario pursued his Real Wealth Management (RWM™) designation to complement his other credentials, which including CFP, RRC, CEA, CPCA, and Insurance Broker. His goal in obtaining his RWM™ was to help his diverse client-base with niche issues using a holistic approach while building trust and delivering value. Here’s his story:
 
 
 
Knowledge Bureau Poll Question

Do you believe Canada’s tax system based, on self-assessment, has suffered under recent changes at CRA and by Finance Canada? If so, what is the one wish you have for tax reform?

  • Yes
    336 votes
    69.42%
  • No
    148 votes
    30.58%