Tax News

Ottawa clarifies REIT rules

The federal government has proposed changes to the Income Tax Act provisions governing real estate investment trusts, which were exempted from the taxation treatment imposed upon other income trusts. “Our government is committed to providing clarity in the application of the REIT rules,” said Finance Minister Jim Flaherty. “These changes take into account constructive comments […]

By Steven Lamb |December 17, 2010

1 min read

Philanthropy rounds out planning

Philanthropic activity in Canada is in top gear. As the season for charitable giving draws to an end, with December 31 being the deadline for a 2010 tax receipt, Canadians are looking for ways to keep the tax man's hand out of their pocket. Charitable giving as a tax-reduction strategy is one of them.

By Vikram Barhat |December 15, 2010

3 min read

U.S. estate uncertainty still exists

Grandma still has time to get run over by a reindeer. Could it be? An early Christmas present from President Obama and the U.S. Congress? Well, if the Democrats in the U.S. House get their way over the next few days, that present will be a little smaller. So what am I talking about? As […]

By Terry F. Ritchie |December 13, 2010

3 min read

Merry RSP season for Canadians

Despite the widespread adoption of the RRSP, one third of Canadians say they will not make a contribution to their plan this year, according to a survey commissioned by BMO Financial Group.

By Steven Lamb |December 10, 2010

1 min read