Tax News

Know the rules for expense write offs

The ability to deduct myriad business expenses is one of the biggest tax advantages of being a self-employed financial advisor as opposed to being an employee. That being said, there are still limits to what an advisor can legitimately deduct for tax purposes as B.C. advisor Hans Rupprecht recently learned in a Federal Court of […]

By Jamie Golombek |December 1, 2009

3 min read

In-trust accounts can help avoid probate

The settlement of a trust is a simple step that opens the door to sophisticated wealth planning opportunities. In last month’s story we touched on the requirements for a trust to come into existence, and canvassed some of the most common ways trusts may be characterized for tax purposes. Ultimately though, reducing trust taxes is […]

December 1, 2009

3 min read

Tax planning for your practice

(November 2009) It’s every advisor’s November ritual: taking a fine-tooth comb to clients’ financial plans. Reviewing portfolios, revisiting risk and reminding clients about their tax obligations are things every good planner does. But being diligent with clients doesn’t mean you can take care of yourself. “Advisors need to take their own advice,” says Michelle Munro, […]

By Bryan Borzykowski |November 17, 2009

5 min read

Up to speed: 2009 tax changes

(November 2009) Need a little tax tutorial before plunging into another RRSP season? Bring yourself up to speed on this year’s tax changes with this succinct overview. PERSONAL TAX CHANGES Basic personal/spousal/partner amount The basic personal amount is the amount of income an individual can earn before paying any federal tax. The 2009 federal budget […]

November 17, 2009

8 min read