This Month’s Poll
Do you agree with the government’s plan to introduce the new Canada Groceries Essentials Benefit (CGEB)?Uncertainty Lies Ahead in 2019: Tax, Benefit and Economic Changes
Happy 2019! Welcome back to Knowledge Bureau Report and to what’s sure to be a fascinating year for interpreting tax and financial news, based on recent stock market volatility and significant tax change. It’s an election year, too, so broadly misunderstood tax reforms recently introduced will likely re-emerge for debate. What lies ahead for 2019? Here are just some of the facts Canadians should know.
What Else Is New in 2019? Auto Expense Deduction Changes
Did you check your odometer reading at the start of the year? Finance Canada confirmed its 2019 auto expense rates on December 27, but they don’t quite measure up to cover the carbon taxes that increase the cost of driving, including the increased gas prices as of January 1. Those who use passenger vehicles for business will be disappointed that their write-offs haven’t changed at all, unless a new vehicle was purchased after November 20, 2018.
Financial Pros Oppose Tax Credits for Journalism Donations
One controversial change o in the the November 21, 2018 economic statement was the proposal to provide taxpayers with a charitable donation credit for monetary gifts to non-profit journalism organizations. We asked tax and financial professionals their opinion on this hot topic: 78% of those who responded to Knowledge Bureau Report’s December poll voted to oppose this measure, hands down, even at a giving time of year.
CE Summit Delegates in the News: Ruth Horst
Ruth Horst from Hamilton, Ontario specializes in personal income tax filing and, as the early-bird registration deadline for this year’s CE Summit personal income tax update draws near, she shares how these workshops have provided important benefits to her role.
New and Available in January! Defusing the Family Business Time Bomb
A new book by Jenifer Bartman and Evelyn Jacks will be released next week by Knowledge Bureau. It addresses a common family secret that plagues millions of Canadians from coast to coast: what to do with the family business time bomb at a time when boomers are contemplating retirement.
Giving Back in 2019? Consider Donor-Advised Funds
The desire to make a difference is gaining momentum with people of all ages, as individuals see their personal wealth not only as a means to live well, but also as a way to contribute have social impact or create a meaningful legacy. Advisors need to be able to help philanthropic-minded clients convert their wealth into some form of social capital. One option: Donor-Advised funds (DAFs).
