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.

Review specific personal tax provisions announced by the Government in the 2018 Federal Budget.

New 2018 Federal Budget includes business tax provisions addressing tax changes for business income.

Review additional tax provisions announced by the Government in the 2018 Federal Budget.

March 1, 2018 is an important date for savvy taxpayers:  don’t miss topping up your RRSP contribution by this deadline. It’s a great investment for your retirement, of course, but it’s so much more powerful:  there are, in fact, three additional tax secrets most people don’t know about that can help you improve your finances.

Interest rates are rising and Canadians are already feeling the pinch in paying down their operating lines.  Owing the taxman can add to the burden.  The Bank of Canada’s next interest rate announcement is March 1 and for some, the trend is already uncomfortable. Debt management is key.

The first tax returns of the year will be processed on February 26 this year.  February 28 is the last day to catch up your filings and preserve appeal rights under the old Voluntary Disclosure rules that allow for full interest relief.  That means tax deniers or procrastinators must step up now.