Canada’s tax and energy advantages are coming to a sudden end, and we should expect businesses will move more investment to the U.S. When Justin Trudeau shuffled his federal cabinet last week, it signalled he’s taking the next United States president seriously. Finding the right mix of people to work with White House officials is
Taxes
Trudeau’s Challenges: Trump, Taxes and Energy

Canada’s tax and energy advantages are coming to a sudden end, and we should expect businesses will move more investment to the U.S. When Justin Trudeau shuffled his federal cabinet last week, it signalled he’s taking the next United States president seriously. Finding the right mix of people to work with White House officials is
Your Family’s Largest Expense may Surprise you

At 42.1%, taxes eat up more of your income than any other single family expense If you asked average Canadian families what their largest expense is, many would probably say: housing. And, you can’t blame them. Mortgage and rental payments are a painful monthly reminder of how much we pay for this basic necessity. But
10 Ways to Become Financially Independent

After the 2008 economic crisis, many people assumed they would never be able to reach true financial independence – the ability to live comfortably off one’s savings and investments with no debt whatsoever. However, individuals willing to use their time horizon to plan and adjust their spending, savings and investment behaviors might just find financial
Crowdfunding and Taxes: What You Should Know

Crowdfunding – the online method of raising money from people around the world – is less than a decade old, allowing artists, activists and a growing number of entrepreneurs to connect with financial support far outside the conventional lending system. Here’s how crowdfunding works. Through sites like Kickstarter, Indiegogo or RocketHub, campaigners seeking funding create
Flexible Spending Accounts, Commuter Benefits Cut Your Taxes

For millions of Americans, 2015 open enrollment for employer-provided benefits is right around the corner. While it may be tempting to simply opt for the same coverage you have this year, doing so could cost you hundreds – or thousands – of dollars in tax savings. Have I captured your attention? Find out if your
Are You Happy Working For The Government Until June 9?

If Canadians paid all of their taxes up front, June 10 is the day they can start working for their families By Charles Lammam and Milagros Palacios No one really thinks we should abolish all taxes. After all, how would governments fund important public services that form the foundation of our economy? Think of services
Taxes Squeezing Household Budgets

Canadian governments take $44 out of every $100 your family earns By Charles Lammam and Hugh MacIntyre Like other Canadians, you work hard for your money. Faced with essential expenses such as food, clothing, and shelter, your household budget may feel squeezed. But what if we told you, your family’s biggest expense is taxes? Sure,
Turning your RRSP into a RIF
If you’re turning 71 this year, you’ll be required by law to mature your RRSP. There are essentially four ways to wind down your RRSP, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. You can (a) take a lump sum withdrawal, (b) purchase an annuity, (c) convert your RRSP to a RRIF (Registered Retirement Income Fund), or (d) some combination of these options.
Withdrawals from RESPs
On the surface, withdrawing funds from an RESP seems like a straightforward task, however, this is often not the case. Professional advice should be utilized to ensure that one maximizes the benefits of their RESP while avoiding potential pitfalls.