Time is Running Out for First-Time Home Buyers to Save in 2024

Owning a home, once almost considered a right of Canadian citizenship, has become a more distant dream for millions. The high cost of housing, coupled with a desperate shortage of supply, has turned the notion of home ownership into a near impossibility for many Canadians and those who have arrived in our country more recently.  The Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA) can help but it’s important to open an account before December 31, 2024 to create and preserve the contribution room.

The federal government raised the Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)  benefits payable to seniors from October to December 2024 by 1.3%, based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).  In total seniors will have received an indexing adjustment of 2.8% in the 12-month period from October 2023 to October 2024.  Let’s examine who qualifies these benefits and how this indexing adjustment is calculated.

Did you know that Canada now has a Blueprint for a Renters' Bill of Rights?  It’s based on four principles the federal government wishes to align with a renter’s right to adequate housing. According to the government, the purpose of the Blueprint is to “express the Federal Government's policy objectives to build a national consensus to protect renters.”  But what does this mean for rental property owners? You may wish to discuss this with your clients who have concerns about their ability to collect rents and improve properties.

Are you concerned about taxpayer rights being eroded with proposals to expand CRA powers within the audit process?  The pros are:  96%  of Knowledge Bureau Report’s September poll said yes.  Here were just some of their reasons why:

There is a lot to consider this upcoming tax season when it comes to filing personal returns and increased risk for individuals, investors and businesses in light of the substantive tax law change in 2024.  Are you prepared to help? Join us for our next CE Savvy Summit on November 6 where Evelyn Jacks, Sharon Conrod, Doug Buss, and Special Guest, Kim G C Moody will discuss key year-end planning issues including retirement planning options, cross border taxation, and how Canada’s new capital gains inclusion rates and AMT will affect year-end tax planning. Register by October 15 for early-bird savings, and check out new team member enrolment options to save on your team training this fall.

TaxCycle Talks is coming to a city near you. This is your chance to hear from Evelyn Jacks, President of Knowledge Bureau and best-selling tax author! Evelyn will break down the key tax changes for Millennials, Gen Z, investors, seniors, and business owners. Don't miss her expert insights into capital gains inclusion rate changes, emerging audit trends, and best practices for training staff for tax season 2024. Register now to attend one of these complimentary events:

October was small business month! Do you think more Canadians today are interested in starting their own businesses?