New Tax Changes for Caregivers: Alberta Budget

Alberta Finance Minister Nater Horner delivered his second consecutive deficit budget on February 26. The deficit is large at $9.4 billion, which the government attributes largely to declining oil revenues. The document is called Fiscal Plan 2026-2029 meaning that this is a three-year fiscal pan, rather than the typical one-year projection.

The annual TFSA contribution room is indexed to the consumer price index (CPI), but the contribution limit is increased only in increments of $500.

Indexation has increased the capital gains exemption available on the sale of qualified small business shares in 2017 by an additional $11,540, to $835,716. The capital gains exemption on the sale of qualified farm or fishing property remains at $1,000,000.

If December is moving month for you, three pieces of advice:  tax a deep breath, treat yourself to some extra eggnog, and keep those moving expense receipts handy.  They will be worth a lot of money when  you file your tax return.

Knowledge Bureau’s November poll was a no-doubter. An overwhelming majority of 87% answered yes to the question: “Do you agree that the new reporting changes for 2016 will result in significant audit activity on the disposition of principal residences?”

There is a growing demand for qualified tax specialists in the financial services sector. Knowledge Bureau’s DFA- Tax Services Specialist program™ will allow you to tap into this profitable career path and build your own professional practice. All it takes is six in-depth courses (180 hours) to earn your DFA-Tax Services Specialist™ designation, and you can get started immediately.

Knowledge Bureau’s Annual Personal Tax Bootcamp is coming soon: in six cities across Canada: January 17-25, 2017. Registrants are urged to reserve their spots early as seating is limited, and to take advantage of early-bird tuition reductions until January 10.