Draft Legislation Released July 23, 2026

While Canadians were enjoying the height of summer 2026, Finance Canada released draft legislation for a number of previously announced tax measures including new rules for the disabled, apprentices in the trades, those with automobile benefits, farmers on the prairies and business owners buying assets or remitting GST/HST. A consultation has been issued on the proposed new rules, which must be emailed to the department by September 4.  There are some important changes, some summarized below, which will also be covered in the September 23 CE Summit.

“I’m proud to pay taxes but I could be just as proud for half the amount.” This quote from 1950’s American broadcaster Arthur Godfrey, highlights the classic government dilemma, currently the subject of a U.S. government shutdown that threatens the jobs of thousands of government workers: who pays for the debt government spending compounds? It’s a question Canadians will grapple with as well, as the November 4 Federal Budget approaches with. At issue? The wisdom of this 14% solution.      

Buying that first home is difficult but there is some good news. Recently costs of both homeownership and renting have dropped and interest rates are at a decent rate of around 4% in the month of October.  There is also an excellent tax-assisted savings plan available to first time homebuyers – the FHSA – but here’s a problem:  its importance is not being well communicated.  This is where tax and financial professionals can help with some year end tax planning. 

The New Federal Budget is being tabled on November 4. Fortunately full analysis will be available the next day for tax and financial professionals at the November 5, 2025 CE Savvy Summit. Register now: this live virtual event, Year-End Tax Planning for Investors and Business Owners, delivers timely analysis alongside practical strategies for optimizing 2025 year-end results.

The Acuity Conference for Distinguished Advisors isn’t just about education. it’s about connection. Alongside world-class keynotes and CE sessions, delegates will enjoy an outstanding line-up of networking experiences designed to celebrate excellence and build lasting professional relationships in an unforgettable setting.

In a profession where knowledge quickly evolves and client needs never stop, financial advisors need education that is practical, flexible, and credible. That’s exactly what CE Master Micro-Credentials deliver.

Last month the sad story of an Ontario family who suddenly lost both parents in 2024 was shared in Burlington Today.  The tax outcomes were just as shocking as the two deaths from unrelated causes.  There was a cottage, a large RRSP and a big tax bill.   Some of the outcomes could have been mitigated with some planning.   I sat down with CTV’s Pat Foran to discuss the outcomes – with a message important to family planning.