Do you worry about whether you are up-to-date with government changes and announcements pertaining to small businesses?
On this page you'll find the latest CRA News relevant to ... the hard working ... self-employed ... Canadian business owner who does their own bookkeeping. Hopefully it will reduce your worry level!
You'll also find old news items that will be helpful when doing backwork.
Be sure to visit CRA's video gallery for videos and transcripts on numerous small business matters. The link to video gallery is found in the Newsroom ... Your best bet is or you can search for "video gallery", then select Videos for businesses.
A popular webcast this time of year is Preparing T4 and T4A Slips and Summaries.
Wise Words
Spend time with those you love. One of these days you will say either, "I wish I had," or "I'm glad I did."
--- Zig Ziglar ---
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November 14, 2022
The annual contribution limit increases to $6,500 in 2023, up from $6,000. This was expected as an increase can be calculated based on CPI data released in October 2022. It will remain at $6,500 until cumulative annual inflation increases equal $500. This usually takes 3 to 4 years but given current rates of inflation, it is expected to change again in 2024. Then it will move to $7,000.
The cumulative contribution since 2009, for eligible individuals, is now $63,500. Annual limits are as follows:
2009 - 2012 $5,000
2013 - 2014 $5,500
2015 - $10,000
2016 - 2018 $5,500
2019 - 2022 $6,000
2023 - $6,500
With the exception of 2015, TFSA limits are indexed to inflation in $500 increments.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
January, 2016
The Liberal Government has decreased the $10,000 annual contribution limit to $5,500 effective in 2016.
It's not clear yet if the TFSA will be indexed to inflation in $500 increments again.
May 12, 2015
The Federal Government will increase the $5,500 annual contribution limit to $10,000 effective in 2015.
Because of this increase, the TFSA will no longer be indexed to inflation in $500 increments.
Money Sense released a great guide to help you harness the power of the TFSA. Find it here.
July 21, 2010
The Knowledge Bureau free weekly newsletter reminds us that a non-arm's length loan made to allow another person to make TFSA contribution is not allowed. The rules deem it to NOT be a TFSA.
The newsletter also pointed out that any interest paid on borrowed money for a TFSA contribution (or RRSP contribution), is NOT deductible.
The newsletter also listed the forms and return that needs to be filed if you owe tax on a TFSA.
CRA has extended the deadline date from June 30, 2010 to August 3, 2010.
July 15, 2010
If you have a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA), be sure you understand your contribution room.
TFSAs allow Canadian residents to contribute $5,000 annually (plus indexation) where the investment income or capital gains earned are not subject to income tax ... if you stay away from prohibited investments or excess contributions.
Investment income or capital gains earned in the TFSA do not affect your contribution room.
2009 was the first year for this type of tax savings vehicle ... and there was some misunderstanding by some taxpayers of the rules pertaining to unused contribution room.
The general rule for TFSA withdrawals is you can withdraw any amount at any time with no tax consequences ... which then creates contribution room. However ...
withdrawals made during the year may NOT be added back (deposited to the account) until the following year.
The annual contribution room of $5,000 is created by filing a tax return, for those age 18 or older. There is no maximum age limit for TFSAs.
Read more about TFSA proposed revisions and excess contributions here.
December 2, 2009
The Canadian Bookkeeper's CRA News
Proposed Revisions to TFSAs
On October 16, 2009 the Minister of Finance proposed technical changes to TFSAs due to recent tax planning schemes involving TFSAs.
It is proposed that these changes be effective October 17, 2009.
You can find the announcement and more in depth information on the Department of Finance Canada website - www.fin.gc.ca. Look under news dated 2009-10-16.
Read more about TFSA contribution room and non-arm's length loans here.
November 1, 2022
CRA released the 2023 CPP maximum pensionable earnings. See the 2023 CPP rates here.
The contribution rate will be changing in 2023 again due to the implementation of CPP Enhancement on January 1, 2019. Prior to 2019, CPP retirement income replaced 25% of average work earnings. Beginning in 2019, CPP retirement income will eventually replace 33% of average work earnings. It will gradually increase by 14% by 2025.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
October 6, 2016
The Liberal government introduced new legislation that enhances CPP benefits. The newly designed CPP will replace 33% of average earnings instead of the current 25%. The changes are being phased in over 7 years starting in 2019.
These measures are meant to offset the fact that most Canadians no longer receive a defined benefits from their employers.
Read the announcement here ... fin.gc.ca/n16/16-122-eng.asp
March 22, 2016
The Liberal government keeps CPP retirement benefits start at 65 reversing the 2012 changes to change the eligibility age to 67 in 2023.
November 25, 2011
CRA is hosting a free webinar on the changes to the rules for deducting CPP (Canada Pension Plan) contributions effective January 2012.
When: December 7, 2011
Where to Register: www.cra-arc.gc.ca> Information About> Events and Seminars >Free Webinar> Canada Pension Plan changes: January 2012
What You'll Learn: How the changes affect 60 to 70 years olds that are working AND receiving a CPP retirement pension affect you as an employer or an employee ... and how to stop and start paying CPP contributions.
You can find the CPP rule changes at http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/bsnss/tpcs/pyrll/clcltng/cpp-rpc/cppchng-eng.html?=eml20111129 .
You can watch a recording of this webinar in CRA's Video Gallery. A downloadable transcript is also available.
July 16. 2011 (Editor: please note that some of these changes were rescinded in 2016 by the Liberal government - see above)
CRA has started reminding bookkeepers and small business owners with employees that "starting January 1, 2012, employers may have to deduct CPP contributions from the pensionable earnings they pay an employee who is at least 60 years of age but under 70, even if the employee is receiving a CPP or QPP retirement pension."
You can find CRA's page at Businesses> Payroll> Calculating deductions> CPP>Changes to the rules for deducting Canada Pension (CPP) contributions.
Service Canada also has information on their site at www.servicecanada.gc.ca>request a Service Canada Publication> Changes to the Canada Pension Plan.
Employees between 65-70 of age who are already receiving CPP benefits must file an election (Form CPT30 Election to Stop Contributing to the Canada Pension Plan, or Revocation of a Prior Election) with CRA if they do NOT want to continue making contributions.
Employees between 65-70 years old who have filed elections can revoke them ... but the revocation doesn't come into effect until the following calendar year.
November 2010
HRSDC has updated their information at www.hrsdc.gc.ca> Topics> Canada Pension Plan> Changes to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) ... it's a link under Our Programs.
October 2010
On December 15, 2009 proposed changes to the CPP plan became law through Bill C-51. Changes will be phased in over a five year period with some of the changes taking effect beginning in 2011.
If you have been thinking about applying to start your CPP pension early, you may want to bring yourself up-to-date on the changes to help you determine if you should be doing applying before December 21, 2010. Here is a useful reference to help you understand the changes:
The Advisor published by RBC Wealth Management Services wrote an article on March 25, 2010 that can be found by googling " RBC Wealth Management Services" + "March 25, 2010" + New Changes for CPP Pensioners Coming. It downloads as a pdf documents.
Another interesting article is interviews with actuarials by Jonathon Chevreau at the National Post. You can find it at Financial Post> Jonathan Chevreau Wealthy Boomer> May 28, 2009> Hello Freedom 70.
Of interest to bookkeepers is to note that in this article, Tom Walker, CFP and semi-retired actuary says,
"The current pension benefits of those who have already started to collect an early CPP pension will not be affected. However if a person who retired early prior to the proposed changes is working after the changes are implemented, he or she will be required to contribute prior to age 65 and will have the option to contribute after age 65. The additional contributions will result in additional benefits which are not currently available."
October 1, 2009
Taxtips.ca October newsletter made a good point I missed. The proposed changes will NOT affect people already receiving CPP or if they start to collect it before 2012.
May 26, 2009
Proposed Changes To CPP
Bookkeepers and small business owners may be interested to know that changes announced earlier this week will likely push out any plans you had for early retirement ... but will give more flexibility to baby boomers whose retirement savings took a dive over the past months.
The proposed changes that will start as of 2012 have been summarized very nicely by the Canadian Capitalist. Here they are in less elegant prose:
You can find the Department of Finance Canada Information Paper Proposed Changes to the Canada Pension Plan on their website fin.gc.ca under Publications and reports.
September 19, 2022
CRA released the fourth quarter 2022 prescribed interest rates late last week. They increased from previous quarter.
September 14, 2022
The 2023 EI rates including the maximum earnings that premiums can be deducted on were released by the Canada Employment Insurance Commission. The mandated 7 year break even objective has resulted in changes to 2023 rates.
The Government announced on August 20, 2021 a two year freeze on the EI premium rate for 2021 and 2022 at the 2020 rate. This is now over.
Click here for 2023 EI rates.
CPP rates are normally announced in November.
EI Rates are usually released annually in mid- September by the Employment and Social Development Canada. Prior to 2019, they were released by the Finance Department.
September 12, 2014
Yesterday, the Harper government announced a new Small Business Job Credit effective for 2015 and 2016. It will reduce small businesses' EI premiums by about 15%. To ensure there is no additional administrative burden to small business owners, CRA will automatically calculate the credit on your business return.
It was also announced that the 2017 EI rates for employees and employers will see a substantial reduction as the new seven year break-even rate setting mechanism takes effect. Annual rate adjustments will be limited to 5 cents.
The hiring credit for small business has been eliminated for 2014. It was in effect for 2011-2013.
Click here for 2015 EI insurable earnings rates.
For more information, go to fin.gc.ca> News> Harper Government Introduces Small Business Job Credit.
September 9, 2013
On September 9, the Harper government announced the 2014 EI rates including the maximum earnings that premiums can be deducted on. The rate is frozen at the 2013 rate for the next 3 years.
Click here for 2014 EI rates.
For more information, go to fin.gc.ca> News> Harper Government Supports Job Creation with Three-Year Freeze of Employment Insurance Premium Rates.
September 20, 2012
On September 14, the CEIFB (Canada Employment Insurance Financing Board) announced the 2013 EI rates including the maximum earnings that premiums can be deducted on.
For more information, go to ceifb-ofaec.ca> Media Room> The Canada Employment Insurance Financing Board Publishes its 2013 Employment Insurance Premium Rate Report ... AND news.gc.ca> HRSDC news> September 14, 2012> Canada Employment Insurance Commission announces 2013 Maximum Insurable Earnings.
November 14, 2011
2012 EI Insurable Earnings Released
The CEIFB (Canada Employment Insurance Financing Board) announced the 2012 EI rates including the maximum earnings that premiums can be deducted on.
CEIFB explains that "this amount is indexed annually using the growth in the average weekly earnings as published by Statistics Canada. Thus, an increase in premiums paid by employees is a combination of any change in the EI premium rate, as well as the impact of any change in the MIE (for those at the maximum level of insurable income)."
The Chief Actuary forecasts the break-even rate for 2012 for all provinces except Quebec to be $2.56 per $100 of insurable earnings. 2012 will be the first year the EI Operating Account is expected to break even on an annual basis.
For more information, go to www.ceifb-ofaec.ca> Media Room> CEIFB News Release The Canada Employment Insurance Financing Board Publishes its 2012 Employment Insurance Premium Rate Report
November 12, 2011
On November 7, 2011, the Finance Minister announced 2012 EI premiums will only rise by 5 cents to 1.83% due to the global economic slowdown. They had been expected to rise by 10 cents as announced on September 30, 2010.
An 16 week extension to the Work-Sharing Program was also announced.
2012 EI maximum insurable earnings have NOT been released yet ... but I am expecting they will be released by the third week in November as they were last year.
2012 CPP Rates were released on November 1.
BACKGROUND
In 2009, EI premiums were frozen as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. The plan called for the premiums for 2011 and beyond to be set on a break-even basis.
The Finance Minister announced on September 30, 2010 that it still supported the principle that the EI system should break even over time ... but at a slower rate. This means there will need to be modest increases over a number of years to repay the deficit built up in 2009 and 2010.
To continue to support the current economic recovery, 2011 EI premiums only rose by 5 cents (.05%) instead of 15 cents (.15%) ... to 1.78% from the current 1.73%.
Subsequent years were expected to increase by 10 cents (.10%) per year.
For more information, go to Department of Finance>Publications and reports> Backgrounder on EI Rate Increase Limit and Department of Finance>News> Harper Government Takes Action to Support Jobs and Growth.
August 22, 2011
Employment Insurance Premium Rate Setting Consultations
Last week, the Minister of Finance announced the launching of Employment Insurance (EI) premium rate-setting consultations.
"The consultations will focus on how the EI rate-setting mechanism can be further improved to ensure more stable and predictable rates, while:
Those wishing to participate can do so at Department of Finance> About Finance Canada> Consultation Paper: Employment Insurance Premium Rate Setting - August 18 2011 (www.fin.gc.ca/activity/consult/eiprs-etcac-eng.asp).
"This consultation is not about EI benefits and is focused exclusively on the EI rate-setting mechanism. In particular, the Government is seeking the views of Canadians on the following questions:
Looking for 2022 and 2023 Canadian Mileage Rates from CRA? You'll find ALL your options here.
January 3, 2022
CRA released the automobile deduction limits and taxable benefit rates for 2021 today. I have updated my tables.
See company vehicle rates and employee auto allowance rates.
2022 simplified meal and travel rates will be released the first week of January 2023.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
Dec 21, 2020
The Department of finance announce that most limits that applied in 2020 will continue to apply in 2021 except there will a one cent decrease in taxable benefit of employee's personal portion of auto expenses to $0.27 and $0.24 for selling and leasing employees.
December 20, 2019
The Department of Finance released the automobile deduction limits and taxable benefit rates for 2020 today. I have updated my tables for the one cent increase in rates to the personal portion of automobile operating expenses paid by employers ... and there will be no increase to the tax-exempt allowances paid by employers for employees' personal use of their vehicles for business. All other rates remained unchanged from 2020.
The new CCA class 54 for zero emission vehicles remains at $55,000.
See company vehicle rates and employee auto allowance rates.
2019 simplified meal and travel rates will be released the first week of January 2020.
October 24, 2022
T4127 Payroll Deductions Formulas effective July 1, 2022 is now available on the CRA website. It contains added clarification regarding the treatment of CPPE factors.
November 11, 2021
CRA News announced the T4127-JAN payroll deduction formulas for computer programs effective January 1, 2022 have been released. The publication includes 2022 indexed personal amounts and income thresholds, federal tax rates, in addition to 2022 EI and CPP amounts.
2022 indexing factor is 2.4% compared to 1.0% in 2021 and 1.9% in 2020.
The summary sheet for 2022 has the federal and provincial figures. It can be found in chapter 8.
The payroll tables and indexing amounts are expected to be released towards the end of November / early December.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
May 15, 2013
CRA News announced the T4127-JUL Payroll Deductions Formulas for Computer Programs changes effective July 1, 2013 are available on the their website. CRA will NOT be issuing a mid-year version of the T4127 as they have in past years. The changes apply to New Brunswick.
January, 2022 Update
There is no change to meal rates for 2021. 2022 meal rates will be released in early 2023.
September 3, 2020 Update
Due to the pandemic, the 2020 meal rates have been increased retroactive to January 1, 2020. "Reasonable" cost of meals increases to $23 per meal including sales tax from $17.
early January, 2020
The CRA used to release these rates during the first week of the year by quietly updating the website with no news release. Now it tends to be nearer the end of January.
The 2020 meal and travel allowances are used to claim medical expenses, moving expenses, and the northern resident deductions on your personal tax return. You will find them here.
April 2020
The federal government has put many programs in place to assist Canadians and business experiencing hardship related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some of the programs for businesses are:
CEWS - Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy - March 15 to June 6, 2020
(Rehired employees have to cancel and repay their CERB payments.)
CEBA - Canada Emergency Business Account - Loan program
GST/HST - Remittance Deferral - June 30, 2020 must still file return on time
Importers - Custom Duty and Sales Tax Deferral - June 30, 2020
BC PST filers - filing and payment due dates are extended to September 30, 2020.
Reference: www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/additional-support-for-canadian-businesses-from-the-economic-impact-of-covid-19.html#_New_Loan_Programs
CRA wants small business owners to know that the online calculator is NOT meant to be used as a statement of earnings for your employees.
It is recommended you check your employment standards to determine what information is legally required.
December 18, 2019
CRA released the 2020 Payroll Deductions Online Calculator today. The rates are effective January 1, 2020.
The manual payroll deduction tables (T4032) used for common pay periods and the supplementary tables (T4008) used for unusual pay periods have also been released online. You will find them here.
The 2020 CPP and EI rates were released earlier this year.
QuickBooks® payroll tax tables for 2020 are expected to become available around December 23, 2019. Intuit has a critical notice if you have employees in Nova Scotia: Starting January 1, 2018, you may need to manually update the Provincial TD1 amounts in QuickBooks for any employees working in Nova Scotia.
June 14, 2019
CRA's July 1, 2019 edition of PDOC is available on CRA's website.
QuickBooks July 2019 Payroll Tax Tables become available June 13, 2019.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
Nov 16, 2021
CRA released the 2022 indexation adjustment for personal income tax and benefit amounts in a fact sheet earlier this week. The chart reflects an indexation increase of 2.4% for 2022 and compares the indexed amounts to the 2019 to 2021 tax years.
In 2016, the second lowest tax bracket of 22% was reduced to 20.5% and a new tax bracket introduced for those earning above $200,000 at 33%. The tax brackets are adjusted for inflation annually.
December 15, 2016
The manual payroll deduction tables (T4032) used for common pay periods and the supplementary tables (T4008) used for unusual pay periods are available. All sets of tables are available for downloading in pdf format.
There is also a payroll deduction table for "outside Canada".
CRA website (www.cra-arc.gc.ca/payroll) release the newest online version of the 2017 Payroll Deductions Online Calculator last week. The rates are effective January 1, 2017.
December 13, 2012
Improvements have been made to the online calculator.
These tables are no longer available in paper format but you can download a pdf copy to your computer.
November 30, 2011
CRA was going to discontinue the paper version of the Payroll Deductions Tables in 2012. However, you can still obtain a paper copy by calling 1-800-959-2221 at the end of December. Call this number if you would prefer a CD version as well.
Downloading a pdf copy of the tables to your computer makes for easy use and access ... and is waaay more convenient in my opinion.
September 22, 2015
Effective October 19, 2015 you will be issued a unique access code to file your GST/HST returns online. You will also be able to sign into the CRA website and change the code assigned to one of your choice.
CRA will also only be mailing out one GST 34-3 package for the entire year instead of each filing period ... Yahoo I say!!! The package will contain:
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
January 22, 2013
Government is raising the reporting thresholds in the Corporations Returns Act. The CRA news / press release stated:
"The thresholds were last amended in 1981, when they were set at $15 million in operating revenues, $10 million in assets and $200,000 of foreign debt or equity. Under the old thresholds, many smaller corporations are required to file ownership returns while not having any foreign ownership or control.
With these changes, only corporations with revenues of more than $200 million, assets over $600 million, or foreign debt and equity over $1 million will have to report financial and ownership information under the Act. At the same time, 99 percent of total foreign-controlled assets and 98 percent of total foreign-controlled revenues will still be covered. The reform will come into force in the spring of this year."
January 22, 2013
The Minister of National Revenue announced the Agent ID requirement for business enquiries phone service at the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is now permanent. It had been a test pilot program since 2011.
When greeting clients, call agents must provide their first name, a number, and a regional suffix at the beginning of each call.
The regional suffixes are:
The Agent ID number is meant to establish a friendly relationship as well as a sense of accountability; allow business owners and representatives to provide feedback; and foster a user-friendly experience.
Business callers and bookkeepers should be aware of the Agent ID and make it a practice to take note of it for future reference whenever you make an enquiry with CRA.
You can also expect highly specialized or complex technical enquiries to be referred to an audit specialist on that topic or to the CRA rulings programs for income tax or GST/HST. This "centre of expertise" approach results in higher accuracy and better service to taxpayers.
Don't forget that since April 2012, you can also ask your tax-related questions online through My Business Account. You will receive a written answer to your enquiry.
March 26, 2015
The CRA has created a page on their website on tips to help protect yourself from anyone obtaining your tax information fraudulently. I think it can be applied to protecting all your financial information and identity documents.
Here are their suggestions with a few of my own embellishments:
December 11, 2014
Here's a summary of some of the changes for 2015 payroll:
You can find out about all the changes to payroll on CRA's website under Payroll.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
October 10, 2012
In the 2012 edition of RC 4120 - Filling out the T4 Summary - Employers' Guide, it announces that "direct deposit will be available for your payroll account as of October 2012. If you request it, the CRA will deposit your refund directly into your account at most financial institutions."
When I followed the link they provided for information on how to request this diect deposit, the page did not have payroll information link added under the Business section yet ... but soon hopefully. You can request direct deposit of payroll by completing Form RC366.
Other information listed under "What's New" is:
October 22, 2011
On October 7, CRA updated publication RC4120 - Employer's Guide - Filing the T4 Slip and Summary for 2012 tax year. Under the what's new section you'll find information about:
December 8, 2014
In 2012, "Someone" at CRA had a sense of humor. On Christmas Eve, "Someone" sent out CRA's annual email reminding us about the annual letter campaign that would begin in January 2013. This year, like last year, the email was sent out in early December.
This the sixth year in a row CRA will be sending out 33,000 informational letters to help taxpayers understand their obligations.
CRA says there are two types of letters that will be going out. "Some taxpayers will receive a letter explaining the eligibility criteria for certain deductions they have claimed on their recent income tax returns. Others will receive a letter with the same information, but it will also inform them that their income tax returns may be selected for audit."
CRA wants "to allow taxpayers to amend their income tax returns by completing an adjustment request in cases where they may have claimed deductions in error or provided inaccurate information".
You can find more informatin on this campaign on CRA's website under Businesses> Other Topics> Audit> The CRA letters about your rental, business, professional or employment activities.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
November 23, 2012
The CRA Toronto Centre Tax Professionals Group had a breakfast seminar on November 14, 2012 where CRA's current audit priorities and policies were discussed.
You can find the GST/HST and Income Tax priority lists at lexology.com. Using their search box, set:
Scroll through the articles until you come to the November 14, 2012 article.
The article also includes CRA's comments on third party penalties and revocation of e-file privileges. The Guidon court case found that penalties imposed under the section 163.2 of the ITA is a criminal penalty not a civil one. CRA is now reassessing their options pertaining to third party penalties.
CRA is working on gaining access to accountants' working papers.
I found it interesting that the "CRA measures the performance of auditors based on six major elements:
Another comment that caught my eye was:
"The CRA reiterated that issues that arise during the audit process should be raised with the auditor, after which it may be appropriate to involve the auditor’s team leader. If the issue cannot be resolved at that level, it would be appropriate to raise the issue with the auditor’s manager or the assistant director of audit at the particular TSO."
October 19, 2012
In the December 15, 2011 issue of The Bookkeeper's Notes, I reviewed the most common sales tax issues found during a CRA audit. One item was the required elections which must be filed BEFORE an intercompany charge could be treated as an exempt supply ... or in other words ... as a nil consideration.
Nil consideration means the parties do not have to account for the sales tax that would be required if the election has not been made.
Yesterday, CRA issued GST/HST Memoranda Series - 14.5 Election for Nil Consideration.
This memorandum looks at the requirements for the election as well as the terms set out in section 156 of the Excise Tax Act (ETA). It includes the rules for closely related parties.
December 3, 2014
CRA updated their website 2015 TD1 forms. They are now available at http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/formspubs/frms/td1-eng.html . The form must be completed by employees and returned to you. You should retain the completed forms on file. You do not send a copy to CRA.
A new form is NOT required every year ... only if there is a change to the employee's personal tax credit amounts, although it is a good idea to update the TD1 each January for existing employees.
The latest TD1 form should be used by bookkeepers for all new employees or revisions to existing employees.
You can find the forms for all provinces and territories on the CRA website at Forms and Publications> TD1> TD1 forms for 2015.
November 25, 2014
CRA announced this week that they will not be accepting digital and/or electronic signatures on Form 1013 Authorizing or Cancelling a Representative. They are still in the preliminary stages of research to determine if they will approve them in the future.
January 22, 2014
Almost 70% of small businesses use a tax preparer to prepare their annual income tax returns.
As a result, CRA is proposing to register tax preparers who are paid a fee for their services. The Registered Tax Preparers Program (RTPP) would help the CRA can identify preparers who making errors in their tax preparation. They want to work with them to correct problems and avoid errors BEFORE a tax return is filed.
CRA will consulting with the public about this proposal until May 2014.
October, 2013
As mentioned under "What's New in Payroll", proposed legislation extends the temporary hiring credit for small businesses for 2013. Last year, they also extended it for 2012.
I chat about how to record your hiring credit in QuickBooks here ...
2014 Update - The hiring credit was NOT extended to 2014. A job credit for small business was introduced in its place.
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
August 22, 2011
Back in June, I briefly mentioned the hiring credit for small business.
CRA has an information page on the subject. It can be found at About CRA> Federal Government Budgets> 2011.
Basically, "the HCSB is a one-time credit of up to $1,000 based on the increase in an employer's employment insurance (EI) premiums paid for 2011 over those paid for 2010."
You qualify if your 2010 EI premiums were $10,000 or less and you experienced an increase in premiums in 2011.
June 3, 2013
CRA's new website is live. If you look at the top navigation bar, you should still be able to find you way around the site fairly easily.
So far, the only I don't like is the presentation of "News". I now need an RSS feed reader to read it instead of viewing it in my web browser.
In April, CRA's new "Manage mail online" service went into effect. Finally you can stop receiving all that paper if you choose ... and look it up online.
February 5, 2013
CRA will be hold a free webinar aimed at Canadian withholding, remitting and reporting requirements for non-residents working in Canada and Canadians working abroad, on Thursday, February 14, 2013, presented at 11:00 a.m. EDT. You can register by accessing the following link:
http://www1.webcastcanada.ca/cra-arc/index-eng.php
After the webinar, a recording can be found in the video gallery:
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/vdgllry/bsnss/#wbnrs
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
October 16, 2012
CRA will be hold a free webinar the taxability of automobile benefits provided to employees, on October 25, 2012, presented at 9:00 a.m. EDT, and at 1:30 p.m. EDT. You can register by accessing the following link:
http://www1.webcastcanada.ca/autobenefits-avantagesautomobiles/index-eng.php
After the webinar, you will find the recorded webcast in CRA's Video Gallery:
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/vdgllry/bsnss/menu-eng.html?clp=bsnss/mtrvhcl-eng&fmt=mp4
January 4, 2013
Beginning in May 2013, representatives registered with "Represent a Client" will be able to submit T1 Processing Review requests for documents electronically. Currently documentation requested must be faxed or sent by mail.
The new system will only accept documents with a valid PR letter reference number.
And by the by, Payroll e-Services resume Monday, January 7, 2013.
The Bookkeeper News source: CRA release
PREVIOUS CRA NEWS RELATED TO THIS TOPIC
November 30, 2012
Returns / Slips That Can Now Be Electronically Filed With CRA
Just a reminder that the deadline to internet file 2011 T1s is midnight Pacific Time today. You have until 8 pm Eastern Time on December 4 to retrieve your acknowledgement files.
You can still efile T2s and T1013s.
11.75 T1s were electronically processed in 2012.
2012 information return efiling is available until December 3, 2102. Information returns are T3, T4, T4A, T4A-NR, T4E, T4RIF, T4RSP, T5, T5007, T5008, T5018, and NR4 returns.
October 22, 2012
ATTENTION BOOKKEEPERS AND TAX PREPARERS
A CRA news release reminds tax preparers that effective January 2013, tax preparers preparing more than 10 returns ... and who charge a fee ... must register with CRA's eFile. Volunteer tax preparers who do not charge a fee are not required to register.
Registration requires a tax preparer to sign up for an eFile number in addition to using certified eFile software. The cost to register is free. Registration for the 2012 tax season begins today.
Non compliance may result in penalties being charged.
Registration can be done online on the CRA website ... cra-arc.gc.ca> Information for> Tax professionals> E-services for tax preparers> EFILE for electronic filers.
A note to small business owners who have a tax preparer prepare your taxes ... ask what tax program they use. If they tell you they are using QuickTax or TurboTax (a tax program you can buy to prepare your own taxes) ... I'd find someone else. They are not using CRA certified software. They are relying the on the programmed tax interview meant for your personal use. Knowledgeable tax preparers do not use these types of tax software!
October 22, 2011
Yesterday, CRA announced all the new tax slips that can be electronically filed using CRA's Web Forms starting in January 2012. Each submission can include up to 50 slips.
They are T3, T4, T4A, T4A-NR, T4E, T4RIF, T4RSP, T5, T5007, T5008, T5018, and NR4.
CRA points out the benefits of filing electronically using Web Forms in their new release dated October 21. 2011. They are:
July 23, 2009
Mandatory E-filing Starts in 2010
CRA announced today, that beginning in January 2010, mandatory e-filing is required for anyone who submits more than 50 information returns.
An information return are returns like T3 slips, T4 slips and T5 slips. You can find more information on the CRA website Mandatory Electronic Filing of Information Returns.
If you have less than 50 information returns, you can still file electronically. It is quick and easy to do ... and you get instant confirmation for your records that the returns have been received. I found it a lot more convenient and efficient than paper filing the returns.
December 14, 2012
CRA released GST/HST Info Sheet GI-131 - Phasing Out of the Penny today.
As discussed in The Bookkeeper's News on July 30, 2012, pennies will no longer be circulated as of February 4, 2013.
This info sheet gives 22 examples of how to account properly for GST/HST once price rounding comes into effect.
Click here for the general guidelines on how to record bookkeeping entries pertaining to the phasing out of the penny.
October 17, 2012
The CRA stopped sending the paper remittance of form PD7A-RB remittance Voucher for Current Source Deductions this December if you have been making your remittances electronically.
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October 5, 2012
CRA will be launching a new Income Tax Technical Publication called Income Tax Folio.
As a result, archived outdated and redundant content were cancelled and removed from their website on September 30. The entire archived Income Tax Interpretation Bulletins section was removed. Current Income Tax Interpreation Bulletins are still available.
The intention to is to slowly replace Income Tax Interpreation Bulletins with the Income Tax Folios. This new section will be broken into 7 series:
The new section can be found on the CRA website under Forms and Publications> Document type> Income tax folios> Income tax folios index.
June 27, 2012
CRA announced today that it is discontinuing their TELEFILE services due to declining use. They recommend filing electronically using NETFILE.
In the Winter 2011 edition of the Excise and GST/HST News publication, CRA has announced it will be discontinuing combined audits.
They will also be changing their approach to GST/HST pre-assessments.
The changes are being made to enhance its focus on GST/HST compliance and will take place over a number of years. The first changes have already been implemented by through a restructuring of the organization ... which has lead to the discontinuing combined audits as mentioned.
The initial focus will be on:
Deloitte's Weekly Tax Highlights newsletter points out that this will lead to additional compliance costs to businesses.
I would like it if the CRA GST/HST return split the sales amount reporting into three (or four) categories ... GST, HST, and zero rated ... instead of one lump sum number.
September 28, 2012
CRA is reminding eFilers that their new national inventory for the processing review program went into effect on July 23.
Under the new system, it is really important that you forward requested documentation to the Tax Centre that made the request.
Under the old system, only the tax centre that assessed the initial return would contact the taxpayer or their authorized representative. This is no longer the case.
September 17, 2012
JonHall Tax Solutions has an excellent article titled Income Reporting Requirements for eBay Sellers. Two court challenges are reviewed - Brian J. Stewart and Jack Walls, reasonable expectation of profit and willful blindness in the context of source of income are discussed with references to ITNEWS-25 Income Tax - Technical News No. 25.
You can find the article at jonhalltax.com> ebay. It is an oddly designed website as there is no menu bar or link that I see to read their articles so you will probably have to Bing/Google the title to locate the article.
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July 23, 2011
The Tax Guy wrote a blog on March 30, 2011 ... sorry I'm a bit behind on my reading ... about Selling on eBay Can Be Taxing.
He discusses what personal use property is and why eBay Power Sellers and Frequent Sellers are considered a business.
You can find his entire blog at blog.resources.ca> archive> By month> March 2011.
August 1, 2009
CRA sent a reminder out on July 30, 2009 that Canadian electronic income is treated the same way as traditional commerce income. Both are taxable.
You still have time to amend 2008 personal tax returns, if this income was omitted. If a CRA audit uncovers the unreported income, penalties will occur along with the possibility of prosecution.
eBay sellers were used as an example. CRA has a list of all eBay sellers due to a recent Federal Court of Canada decision. Beginning late this summer, this information will be used to determine if they properly reported their income on their personal tax returns.
Under the Voluntary Disclosures Program, penalties and prosecution will not be applied it the taxpayer takes the initiative to correct returns already filed.
eBay sellers can learn about what business deductions they are eligible for in "The Tax" section.
Read more here on unreported income and which tax form to use to file your amendment with CRA.
You may also be interested in reading information about GST/HST and Electronic Commerce.
September 16, 2012
I was reading E&Y's latest Tax Matters newsletter. One article reviewed CRA's comments on the reporting requirements for interest income.
IT-396R Interest Income reviews how to compute and report investment income when no principal or interest payments are made on a loan.
For investments made before 1990, you may report accrued interest may be reported annually or triannually. If the money is invested in a long-term contract but does not make annual payments, you should be reporting your accrued interest based on the anniversary date of the contract, not the calendar year.
Interest earned on investments made after 1989 must be reported annually. How or when the interest is paid is not a factor.
If you do not report accrued interest, CRA will assess a late payment fee as well as assessing the accrued interest for the period. A groos negligence penalty may also be applied.
August 23, 2012
CRA released GST/HST Info Sheet GI-127 Documentary Evidence when Making Tax-Relieved Sales to Indians and Indian Bands over the Telephone, Internet and Other Electronic Means . It compliments GST/HST Technical Information Bulletin B-039,GST/HST Administration Policy - Application of the GST/HST to Indians.
August 15, 2012
CRA released GST/HST Memoranda Series 8.4 Documentary Requirements for Claiming Input Tax Credit. It replaces GST Memorandum 400-1-2, Documentary Requirements.
A breakdown of what the supporting documentation should contain is included. My chat on what constitutes a legitimate receipt covers this requirement.
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March 2, 2012
Calculating Input Tax Credits
CRA released GST/HST Memorandum 8-3, Calculating Input Tax Credits. This memo cancels GST/HST Policy Statement P‑63, Output‑Based Method for Input Tax Credit Allocation.
"This memorandum explains the general method for calculating input tax credits (ITCs) as provided for under the Excise Tax Act (Act). It sets out the requirement to apportion goods and services between commercial and non‑commercial activities, and outlines methods for doing so. It also explains the rules affecting ITCs in respect of improvements to capital property as well as those for leases and ongoing services."
July 26, 2012
CRA released a new article explaining Canada's international social security agreements. You can find the article under *CPP/EIrulings> CPP/EI explained> Canada Pension Plan and Employment Insurance Explained: Canada’s international social securityagreements.
July 23, 2012
Effective today, the Processing Review Program will begin using a "national inventory" rather than a "tax centre inventory". Prior to this, only the tax centre that initially assessed your return could undertake a review.
This means your return can now be reviewed by any tax office in Canada. When forwarding requested documentation, you will now have to note which tax center made the request.
June 28, 2012
CRA replaced GST Memorandum 400-3-11 Allowances and Reimbursements with two new documents:
GST/HST Memorandum 9-3, Allowances
GST/HST Memorandum 9-4, Reimbursements
You can find the new releases on the CRA website under Forms and Publications.
May 3, 2012
You can find the archived version of this webinar in the CRA Video Gallery along with a downloadable transcript.
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March 22, 2012
The webinar will be held on March 28, 2012. This webinar was open for registration. However, since there was a limit of 750 connections, the registration has been closed.
Hopefully they will hold another session or get the webcast up on their site shortly after the webinar has been completed.
April 2012
CRA has an excellent web page with links to not only the highlights of the 2012 Federal Budget, but links to the years 2005-2011 as well. You can locate the under Information About The CRA> Other Topics> Federal government budgets and other federal legislative announcements.
The 2012 Federal Budget extends the hiring credit for small business, eliminates the penny and phases out the OTEC.
Employer contributions to group sickness or accident insurance plans proposes the employer contributions become a taxable benefit to employees in 2013. Under current rules, employer contributions are not taxable.
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June 25, 2011
I reported in the June 15, 2011 isssue of The Bookkeeper's Notes ... with the Conservatives elected with a majority, their budget was reintroduced and the next phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan was announced.
It includes a temporary hiring credit for small businesses (See ... About CRA> Federal Government Budgets> 2011> Hiring Credit for Small Business) and extending the accelerated capital cost allowance rate for investment in manufacturing or processing machinery and equipment for two years. The accelerated CCA was first introduced in the 2008 budget.
I didn't mention in the newsletter that CRA will be reviewing the graduated penalty structure for information returns. (See ... About CRA> Federal Government Budgets> 2011> Filing Penalty - Information Returns).
March 20, 2012
This posting has been moved to Reimplementing PST in BC.
February, 2011
On CRA's website under What's new for payroll?, subcontractor reporting is being referred to as fees for services.
Box 048 was added to the newly designed T4A slip as the place to report subcontractor payments. It is interesting to note the following comment:
"Until such time as the CRA undertakes a review for the purposes of clarifying the types of fees for services that are to be reported on the T4A slip, taxpayers will not be penalized for failing to complete Box 048."
So stayed tuned on this one. You can find what information I've gathered so far on how CRA is auditing this area.
January 2011
This the last month you can purchase a business computer eligible for Class 52 CCA with a rate of 100%.
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July 2009
This is a reminder that any business computer purchased from January 28, 2009 to January 31, 2011, is eligible for a temporary 100% capital cost allowance (CCA) in Class 52.
This applies to computer hardware and system software but NOT operating software. The half year rule will not apply.
This tax relief was part of the 2009 Economic Action Plan to stimulate business investment.
If you are interested, there was an update on Canada's Economic Action Plan, released June 16, 2009.
September 15, 2010
The Knowledge Bureau's weekly newsletter released today had a reminder.
Applications for the extended EI benefits for long service employees who had accessed EI on limited basis in the past ended officially on September 11, 2010.
The extended benefits began October 25, 2009. They offered an extra five weeks of regular employment insurance benefits and up to 20 weeks of additional benefits. The benefits don't end until August 2011 for those who applied before September 11 or are currently receiving them.
An additional reminder to bookkeepers and employers that the two year freeze on EI premiums comes to an on December 31, 2010 ... so adjust your budgets accordingly.
December 18, 2009
Two changes were made to the EI regulations back in March, 2009 that affect users who file ROEs (record of employment) electronically using ROE Web. The changes do NOT apply to employers still filing paper ROEs.
You can find the Service Canada announcement at www.servicecanada.gc.ca under publications and reports>records of employment>Changes to Regulations Concerning Electronic ROEs or Pamphlet - Changes to Regulation 19.
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