Time’s Up: CRA’s 100 Day Mandate for Improvement

After years of frustration on the part of tax professionals and taxpayers alike, the Finance Minister ordered the Canada Revenue Agency to clean up its act in 100 days. Specifically, the improvement plan was to run from September 2 through December 11. Finance Minister and Minister of National Revenue, Francoise-Phillippe Champagne instructed CRA to fix “unacceptable wait times and service delays.” Time’s up this week and CRA has released an update on progress. What gets measured, gets done. Let’s see what CRA’s metrics show. 

Did you know that 61% of Canadians are afraid of running out of money during retirement? According to a new CPP Investments survey, that fear is widespread. Yet surprisingly few people understand even the basics of public pension planning. For example, Canadians are not obliged to begin OAS or CPP at age 65. By delaying, they can significantly boost after-tax income and improve retirement security.

Businesses with revenue over the small supplier threshold ($30,000 in worldwide revenues over four consecutive calendar quarters) must register for, collect, and remit GST or, in participating provinces, HST. However, there are circumstances where a business may choose—or be required—to deregister. This article explains when and how deregistration happens, the consequences, and the steps involved.

Death and taxes. You know the saying. As tax professionals, it’s up to you to walk your clients through what can be a lengthy and emotional process. Your role in helping clients get the affairs of the deceased in order cannot be overstated. Over the coming weeks, we’ll look at some of the complexities that arise. Importantly, this is a conversation to have—if possible—before the death of a taxpayer.

As more Canadians pursue opportunities abroad—whether it’s purchasing a villa in Portugal, a beach house in Italy, or investment property in Israel or the U.S. - advisors are increasingly being called upon to manage the tax and compliance challenges that follow. Capital is mobile, but taxes are not, and the complexity of cross-border investment planning has never been greater. That’s why the CE Savvy Summit on September 17, 2025 will feature a timely session, The Globetrotting Investor, led by Dr. Dean Smith, PhD, CFP, TEP, CPA, CA, RWM™, FDFS™, to help advisors navigate these growing challenges with confidence.

In a market where clients demand more from their advisors, the ability to provide specialized, high-level advice has never been more important. The Professional Practitioner Diploma (PPD) equips financial professionals with the advanced knowledge and credentials needed to differentiate themselves, build client trust, and compete effectively in a crowded financial services landscape.

We’re excited to introduce a brand-new destination designed especially for Knowledge Bureau The Designate VIP Lounge. This is your all-access portal to learning, networking, and exclusive member benefits. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to stay current, connected, and recognized in your professional journey. Do you qualify as a relicensed designate? Check out your upcoming emails and relicensing package for your exclusive access!