by Atlantic Wealth

It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Terry Thorne, long-time friend and former President of Atlantic Wealth Management

It is with profound sadness we announce the death of Terry (Terence) Thorne, age 66, on March 22 in Halifax.

Terry was the son of the late William Charles and Anna May (Bell) Thorne. Terry was born on February 11,1955 in Saint John, N.B. and attended local area schools graduating from Saint John High School in 1973 and the University of New Brunswick in 1977.

Terry was proud to be a Chartered Accountant and spent the first half of his business career with Ernst and Young (previously Clarkson Gordon) in New Brunswick. The second half of Terry’s career saw him in ownership positions with several small businesses in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, most notably Mitchell McConnell Insurance in Saint John and Atlantic Wealth Management in Halifax.

Terry continually volunteered throughout his career in many roles. He was most proud of being Chairperson of the New Brunswick Heart Foundation, Chairperson of St. David’s United Church in Rothesay, N.B., treasurer of the New Brunswick Institute of Chartered Accountants, and treasurer of the Riverside Golf and Country club. Terry spent several years on the Executive and as Treasurer of Adsum for Women and Children. He was an active member at Bedford United Church and served on various committees.

Terry is survived by the love of his life Linda (Flower) Thorne, their three children C.T. Thorne of Halifax, Michael Thorne (Shannon Nudds) of Halifax, and An Thorne of Snow Lake Keep in Hampton, NS. Terry loved and adored his three grandchildren, Olivia Thorne-Sparks and Leah and Alex Thorne, all of Halifax. Terry is also survived by two brothers, Richard (Sandra) Thorne of Hampton N.B. and William “Bill” (Nancy) Thorne of Saint John, sister in law Jude Flower of Moncton, and brother in law Paul Flower of Saint John. Surviving also are Terry’s two nieces, Cynthia (Sean) Kelley and Kimberly (Ronald) Wright and were very close from childhood with Uncle T. Finally, Terry was raised with his uncle Thomas Bell of Hampton and was very close to Tom and his two children, Shelagh and Andrew. He is survived by his uncles Eugene (Barbara) Thorne, Philip Thorne, and Leslie (Lorna) Thorne all of Saint John and numerous cousins and friends.

Terry was a joy to be with and found the fun in everything. He had many friends and looked forward to his daily phone calls. Terry and Linda travelled extensively over the years to warmer destinations and there was usually golf involved. Terry was passionate about golf and they wintered in Florida for many years. He will be remembered by many close friends in Florida with whom they had so much fun. Those are memories he cherished.

Closer to home, Terry loved his home course of Glen Arbour and loved meeting his golf buddies on the first tee. Weather rarely factored into this. He earned the name “the smiling assassin” after a match play event, which he found hilarious.

Terry battled acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in his last year and his brother Bill donated his bone marrow in an attempt to slow or halt the progression of Terry’s leukemia. Terry was overwhelmed by the care he received at the VG on the hematology floor 8A and 8BMT. He initiated a fund-raising effort for the ward and this was his mission for several months. He could not say enough about the nursing care he received and wanted to mention a special doctor, Dr. Abdullah Quereshi who provided exemplary care. Also, the nurses in the medical day unit took great care of him. There will be a link to the fundraising page at the end for those who would like to contribute to this worthwhile cause that was so dear to his heart.

His warm and generous personality was only outdone by his laughter and love of life itself. He was happiest spending time with his children and grandchildren and his legacy will live on through them. While his life was shortened by AML, Terry was grateful for the blessed time he had on this earth and expressed that sentiment often.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, there will be a private funeral service for invited guests at the Bedford United Church on Date to be determined.
For those wishing to view the service virtually, please refer to the Bedford United Church’s Facebook page or the direct link on Terry’s memorial obituary page.
There will be a celebration of our dear Terry’s life later in the summer when, hopefully, restrictions are lifted.

View Online Memorial – Date to be determined

 

In lieu of flowers, a donation made to Terry’s AML Journey fundraiser through the QEII Foundation (link under donations tab) or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.

Donate to QEII and Read about Terry’s AML Journey

 

Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com (Dartmouth Chapel)

Sign the Guestbook and share your memories of Terry

 

 

“Grief is the price we pay for love.”

 

in Blog / Family 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

Protecting Key Talent using Group Benefits

Building a Sustainable Future Together

As specialists in group benefits, the primary goal is to cultivate a sustainable future by collaborating closely with clients. The belief is that an informed and engaged workforce is pivotal for the success of any organization. A key component of this vision is the protection of the organization’s essential talent. This article delves into how group benefits can be instrumental in safeguarding an organization’s most treasured resource: its people.

The Importance of Essential Talent

Essential talent encompasses those employees who bring critical skills, expertise, and knowledge that propel an organization’s growth and success. These individuals form the core of any organization, ensuring its prosperity in the competitive market. Retaining such invaluable members is crucial as their absence can significantly affect business operations, productivity, and overall morale.

Challenges in Retaining Essential Talent

In the ever-evolving job market, holding onto essential talent can be a daunting task. Numerous factors, including enticing offers from rivals, opportunities for personal growth, work-life equilibrium, and employee well-being, can influence retention. For employers, recognizing and addressing these challenges is vital to safeguard top performers and sustain a competitive advantage.

The Significance of Group Benefits

Group benefits serve as a potent strategy in attracting and retaining essential talent. By presenting comprehensive and tailored benefits packages, organizations showcase their dedication to the well-being, security, and future of their employees. Here are some pivotal aspects of group benefits that aid in retaining essential talent:

  1. Health and Wellness Coverage: Offering comprehensive health and wellness benefits, such as medical, dental, and vision plans, not only fosters a healthy workforce but also signifies an organization’s commitment to overall employee well-being. Employees who feel this support are more inclined to stay loyal.

  2. Income Protection: Many group benefits packages encompass disability insurance, offering financial security for employees facing injuries or illnesses that hinder their work. Such provisions alleviate financial concerns during tough times, fostering a sense of stability and encouraging talent to remain with the organization.

  3. Retirement Planning: A meticulously crafted retirement plan appeals to essential talent. It signifies an organization’s concern for their future and dedication to ensuring their financial comfort during retirement. Contributing to such plans also strengthens the bond between employers and employees.

  4. Support for Work-Life Balance: Benefits that champion work-life balance, like flexible work schedules, paid leaves, and family leaves, reflect an organization’s understanding of the significance of a balanced life. Employees who sense this flexibility are more likely to remain devoted.

  5. Career Advancement: Benefits can also encompass professional development and training opportunities. Investing in employee growth not only sharpens their skills but also underlines an organization’s commitment to their long-term achievements.

Educational Approach and Teamwork

The role of group benefits specialists is to offer educational support and foster collaboration with clients. Through open dialogues about an organization’s aspirations and needs, it’s possible to design group benefits packages that resonate with specific demands. The collective goal is to nurture and protect essential talent, ensuring a sustainable future.

Protecting essential talent through group benefits is more than a strategic move; it embodies a dedication to employee welfare. By investing in the well-being, security, and future of employees, organizations not only boost loyalty and retention but also lay the foundation for a robust and sustainable future. The journey ahead is one of partnership, aiming for a flourishing and vibrant workforce.

in Blog / Business Owners / dental benefits / Group Benefits / Health Benefits 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

Understanding Target Loss Ratio and Your Group Benefits Plan

Group benefits can be intricate both in their establishment and administration. There are numerous details and considerations to be aware of when purchasing a group benefits plan, one of which is the target loss ratio (TLR).

Key Questions Addressed:

  • What is a target loss ratio?

  • How does my TLR influence my premiums upon policy renewal?

  • What steps should I take if I have concerns regarding my TLR?

Understanding Target Loss Ratio (TLR):
Here are the primary aspects you should understand about the target loss ratio (TLR):

  • It represents the expected profit point of your employee benefit plan’s comprehensive health and dental benefits.

  • TLR is the maximum dollar amount of claims paid by the insurance company, expressed as a percentage of your premium. For instance, if an insurance company pays $40 in claims for every $80 collected in premiums, the loss ratio stands at 50%.

  • The TLR is primarily determined by two factors: the number of members participating in the employee benefit plan and the annual premium paid.

  • The loss ratios can vary based on the type of insurance. For instance, the loss ratio for property insurance is typically lower than that for health insurance.

Does my TLR Affect My Premiums Upon Renewal?
Generally, your TLR won’t have a significant influence on your premiums when renewing. However, a notable increase or decrease in the number of staff members participating in your group benefits plan might cause some impact.

Other factors influencing your renewal premiums include:

  • A substantial amount of health and dental claims made.

  • Changes in the general demographics of your employees, such as aging.

  • An increase in the cost of services covered by your group benefits plan.

  • General inflation.

Addressing Concerns About TLR:
As someone overseeing a group benefits plan, your objective is to ensure optimal value for your premium expenditure.

If you’ve been collaborating with the same insurance provider for an extended period, it’s beneficial to explore other available options. Comparing offerings can help ascertain if the rate and TLR you’re being offered align with current market standards.

It’s essential to consider how varying TLRs might influence the long-term viability of your group benefits plan. If you’re keen on gaining deeper insights, consider reaching out to industry experts or consultants for guidance.

in Blog / Business Owners / financial advice / financial planning / Group Benefits / Health Benefits 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

Understanding Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs)

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A Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) is an investment vehicle available to Canadian residents. It offers numerous benefits, including tax-free growth of your investments and tax-free withdrawals. Before you decide to open a TFSA, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements, contribution limits, eligible investments, and withdrawal rules. 


Eligibility Requirements

To open a TFSA, you must be a resident of Canada with a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) and be at least 18 years old. However, in some provinces and territories, the legal age to enter a contract (which includes opening a TFSA) is 19. The TFSA contribution room for the year an individual turns 18 is carried over to the following year if the individual resides in a jurisdiction where the legal age is 19.


Benefits

One of the primary benefits of a TFSA is that it allows your investments to grow tax-free. Any income you earn from your investments within the TFSA is not taxed, even upon withdrawal. This includes interest, dividends, and capital gains. 

Additionally, you can withdraw any amount from your TFSA at any time, and the withdrawals are tax-free. It’s important to note that withdrawing funds from your TFSA does not reduce the total amount of contributions you have made for the year. The amount withdrawn in a year will be added back to your TFSA contribution room at the beginning of the following year.


Contribution Limit

The annual TFSA dollar limit has varied over the years. From 2009 to 2012, it was $5,000; in 2013 and 2014, it was $5,500; in 2015, it increased to $10,000; from 2016 to 2018, it was $5,500; from 2019 to 2022, it was $6,000, and in 2023, it is $6,500. This annual limit will be indexed to inflation and rounded to the nearest $500. 

The maximum amount you can contribute to a TFSA is determined by your TFSA contribution room. This room is the sum of the TFSA dollar limit of the current year, any unused TFSA contribution room from previous years, and any withdrawals made from the TFSA in the previous year. 

Let’s look at two examples to better understand this:

Example #1: Carry Forward Unused Room to Your Current Contribution

In 2020, the annual TFSA contribution limit is $6,000. If you only contribute $5,000, you would have $1,000 of unused room. This unused room gets carried over to the next year. So, in 2021, the annual contribution room is $6,000, but because of the unused room from 2020, you actually have a total contribution room of $7,000 ($6,000 for 2021 + $1,000 carried over from 2020).

Example #2: Reclaim Your Contribution Room in the Following Year When You Make a Withdrawal

In 2021, you have $7,000 in contribution room and decide to contribute the full amount. However, you also decide to make a withdrawal of $1,000 in 2021. In 2022, the annual contribution limit is $6,000, but because of the withdrawal made in 2021, you actually have a total contribution room of $7,000 ($6,000 for 2022 + $1,000 withdrawn in 2021).

Please note that if you exceed your available TFSA contribution room at any time in the year, you will have to pay a tax equal to 1% of the highest excess TFSA amount in the month, for each month that the excess amount stays in your account.


Eligible Investments

The types of investments that are permitted in a TFSA are generally the same as those allowed in a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). These include cash, segregated funds, mutual funds, securities listed on a designated stock exchange, guaranteed investment certificates, and bonds.


Withdrawals

As mentioned earlier, you can generally withdraw any amount from the TFSA at any time, depending on the type of investment held in your TFSA. However, if you decide to replace or re-contribute all or a part of your withdrawals into your TFSA in the same year, you can only do so if you have available TFSA contribution room. 

For example, if in 2023 you withdraw $1,000 from your TFSA and later in the same year decide to re-contribute that amount, you can only do so if your contribution room for 2023 allows for it. If it doesn’t and you re-contribute the $1,000 anyway, you will be considered to have over-contributed to your TFSA in that year. This will result in a tax equal to 1% of the highest excess TFSA amount in the month, for each month that the excess amount stays in your account


Beneficiary

When establishing a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), you are given the choice to designate a beneficiary. This person will be the recipient of the investments within your TFSA in the event of your death. The assets inherited by the beneficiary are not considered income, and as such, are received tax-free. It’s important to note, though, that while the inherited amount is tax-free, the beneficiary will be responsible for any tax on earnings that the TFSA generates after the original account holder’s death. 


Start Planning for Your Future Today!

in Blog / investment 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

Why Insurance Is So Important If You’re A Single Parent

Why Insurance Is So Important If You’re A Single Parent

Your kids mean everything to you – and you want to make sure they’re protected no matter what. As a single parent, you must have the right health and life insurance options in place to make that happen. We recommend you consider all of the following types of insurance:

  • Disability insurance

  • Critical illness insurance

  • Accident insurance

  • Life insurance

Disability insurance

Disability insurance can provide you with an income if you become disabled and cannot work – whether it’s for a short period of time or a long one.

Most workplaces offer disability coverage, but it’s tied to that particular job, so you’ll lose coverage if you leave that job. As well, the coverage from your employer’s plan may not be sufficient to cover your needs if you become disabled.

It’s particularly important for you to look into disability insurance if you work as a contractor or have a job with no benefits.

Critical illness insurance

Critical illness insurance can help you pay for the costs associated with various serious medical issues (such as a heart attack, cancer, or a stroke) that aren’t covered by any other health plans or disability insurance. As a single parent, you may find the payout from a critical illness insurance policy especially helpful for paying for extra childcare or lost income if you cannot work.

Accident insurance

Life is getting busier than ever – and there are more and more of us on the roads. Unfortunately, more people on the roads mean more accidents. If you buy accident insurance for yourself or your children, the payout from the policy can bring in some extra income at a critical time of need if any of you are in an accident. You can use an accident insurance payout to help pay for anything from lost income to private home care.

Life insurance

Life insurance is critical as a single parent as your children are dependent on your income. Generally, we suggest that you get a policy that is worth at least 10 times your annual income, but you may need more if you have a lot of debt or you need the money to last a long time.

Your children should be the beneficiaries of your policy and you can name a trustee (such as a grandparent or other relative) to look after the money on your children’s behalf until they reach a specified age.

We can help!

If you have questions about what kind of insurance is best for you, we’re happy to answer them! We’ll walk you through all your options and put together an insurance package that’s just right for you. Call us today!

in Blog / Family / insurance / Life Insurance 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

What is Critical Illness Insurance?

Nowadays, people survive serious medical issues such as cancer, a heart attack, or a stroke. And while this is good news if a critical
illness happens to you – your recovery may come with costs that you don’t have the money to cover.

This is where critical illness insurance can play a crucial role. In this article, we’ll explain:

  • What critical illness insurance is.

  • What you can use the money from a critical illness insurance payout for.

  • How you can get critical illness insurance.

What is critical illness insurance?

A critical illness policy is designed to help you pay the costs associated with a serious medical issue such as cancer, a stroke or a
heart attack.  With critical illness insurance, your insurance company will issue you a lump-sum payment once the waiting period has passed.

Critical illness insurance can help you pay for costs that aren’t covered by other health plans or disability insurance.

What can I use the money from critical illness insurance for?

With a critical illness lump-sum payment, there are no restrictions on what you can use the money for. You can choose to use the money
to:

  • Pay down debt or cover costs such as travel to and from your treatment.

  • Cover lost income for you if you cannot work. This is especially important if you are self-employed.

  • Pay for a caregiver or lost wages if your spouse takes time off work to be a caregiver.

  • Cover renovations on your house that are necessary due to your illness.

  • Cover medical treatments and medications not covered by a government or private health plan.

Being able to spend your critical illness insurance lump-sum payment freely takes a lot of stress off you and your family.

How do I get critical illness insurance?

We can help you get critical illness insurance.  If you’re interested in critical illness insurance, these are the steps you’ll need to follow:

  1. Think about why you want critical illness insurance and what kind of coverage you need.

  2. Book an appointment to speak to us. Apply for coverage.

  3. We’ll let you know when you’re approved and deliver your policy.

If you do get any of the illnesses listed in your policy, contact us, and we’ll guide you through the steps you need to file a claim. After your claim is approved, we’ll let you know when to expect your lump-sum payment.

Contact us!

It can be scary to think about getting ill, but critical illness insurance can help put your mind at ease that you’ll have the financial
resources you need. Reach out to us today to learn more!

in Blog / critical illness insurance / insurance 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

Why A Buy-Sell Agreement Is Vital For Your Business

Why A Buy-Sell Agreement Is Vital For Your Business

The purpose of a buy-sell agreement is to establish a set of rules or actions (that are legally binding) for what must happen to a business if one or more of the business owners is no longer involved.

Why does my business need a buy‐sell agreement?

A buy-sell agreement is vital for your business as it protects the shareholders and the business itself if one of the partners exits the business for any reason.

A buy-sell agreement offers so many benefits for your business. It:

  • Can help maintain the continuity of your business.
  • Minimize disputes between remaining co-owners and the family of the departing owner.
  • Decrease stress and uncertainty for all business owners.
  • Protect business assets and liquidity by including a solid financial and tax plan.

What are the different types of buy-sell agreements?

These are the most common types of buy-sell agreements:

  • A cross-purchase agreement. In this agreement, each remaining shareholder agrees to buy a percentage of the shares owned by the departing shareholder. The purchase can be funded by life insurance in case of the death of one of the shareholders.
  • A promissory note agreement. Each shareholder has corporate-owned life insurance in this agreement, and the corporation is the beneficiary. If a shareholder dies, the surviving shareholder(s) use a promissory note to purchase the deceased’s shares from their estate. The shareholders then use a capital dividend provided by the life insurance to pay off the promissory note.
  • A share redemption arrangement. This is similar to the promissory note agreement set up, but no promissory note is involved, and the capital dividend account pays for the deceased shareholder’s shares.

What do I need to cover in my buy‐sell agreement?

Your buy-sell agreement must address the following:

  • Valuation of the company.
  • Ownership interests.
  • Buyout clauses.
  • Terms of payment.
  • What will happen in the event of any “triggering events.”. These events can include a disagreement between business owners, a business owner getting divorced or retiring, a business owner going bankrupt or becoming disabled, or a business partner dying.

What is the best way to fund my buy-sell agreement?

This needs to be addressed when putting the buy-sell agreement together and can be challenging in the case of some “triggers,” such as a business owner getting a divorce or a disagreement between business owners.

In the case of the death of a business owner or a business owner becoming disabled, the buy-sell agreement can be funded by insurance. Insurance provides both immediate capital and significant tax benefits.

We Can Help!

Buy-sell agreements can be complex and challenging, but they are vital to protect your business and your personal interests. We can explain the best way to set one up – reach out to us today to get started!

in Blog / Business Owners / Buy Sell 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

First Home Savings Account (FHSA): What You Need to Know

The First Home Savings Account (FHSA) is a savings plan designed for first-time home buyers in Canada, which allows them to save up to $40,000 tax-free. Contributions to an FHSA are tax-deductible, similar to Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Additionally, income and gains earned inside the account and withdrawals are tax-free, like a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA).

In this article and accompanying infographic, we will provide you with the necessary information you need to know about FHSA, including eligibility requirements, contributions and deductions, income and gains, qualifying investments, withdrawals, and transfers.

Eligibility Requirements

To be able to open an FHSA, you need to meet all the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Residency: You must be an individual who is a resident of Canada.

  2. Age: You must be at least 18 and not reach 72 in the current year.

  3. First-time Home Buyer: You must be a first-time home buyer, which means that neither you nor your spouse had owned a qualifying home that was your principal residence at any point during the calendar year or the preceding four calendar years before the account was opened.

Contributions and Deductions

There are limits to the amount you can contribute to your FHSA.

  • The annual contribution limit is $8,000.

  • The lifetime contribution limit is $40,000.

If you do not contribute the full amount each year, the contribution room carries forward to the following year. However, carry-forward amounts only start accumulating after you open an FHSA for the first time, and they do not automatically begin when you turn 18.

Any excess contributions are subject to a penalty of 1% per month.

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Tax Deductions

By claiming contributions made to FHSA accounts as a deduction against all taxable income sources, the amount of taxable income for the year can be reduced, resulting in a decrease in the amount of taxes payable.

Suppose you choose not to claim the FHSA deduction in the year. In that case, you can carry forward the unused contribution amounts indefinitely and claim them as a deduction later, like RRSP deductions.

Qualifying Investments

Qualifying investments for an FHSA are like those allowed in RRSPs and TFSAs, including mutual funds, segregated funds, ETFs, stocks, bonds, and GICs.

Incomes and Gains

The income and capital gains earned in an FHSA are not included in your annual income for tax purposes and therefore are not deductible. This means that the investment can continue to grow and compound within the FHSA tax-free like a TFSA.

Qualifying Withdrawals

Withdrawals from an FHSA are subject to specific rules and conditions. Qualifying withdrawals made to purchase a home are tax-free but must meet specific criteria:

  • The person making the withdrawal must be a first-time home buyer and a Canadian resident.

  • They must also intend to use the property as their primary residence within one year of purchasing or building it.

  • The home being purchased must be in Canada, and a written agreement to buy or build the home must be in place before October 1st of the year following the withdrawal.

It is not possible to restore FHSA contribution limits by making withdrawals or transfers.

Transfers

Unused funds in an FHSA account following a qualifying withdrawal can be transferred tax-free to an RRSP or Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) until the end of the following year from the year of the first withdrawal. Transfers do not affect the available RRSP contribution room, but the transferred funds will be taxable when withdrawn from the account.

It’s important to remember that there are limitations on how long you can keep your FHSA account. You must close your FHSA after you’ve held it for 15 years or by the end of the year in which you turn 71, whichever comes first.

If you’re considering opening an FHSA or saving for a home, we can help; contact us.

in Blog / investment 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

Tax Tips You Need To Know Before Filing Your 2022 Taxes

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Tax Tips You Need To Know Before Filing Your 2022 Taxes

This year’s tax deadline is May 1, 2023, as April 30 falls on a Sunday this year. It’s important to make sure you’re claiming all the credits and deductions you’re eligible for. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips to help you maximize your tax refund and ensure you’re taking advantage of all the available tax benefits.

Canada Workers Benefit

The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is a refundable tax credit designed to help low-income working families and individuals. The credit is made up of two parts:

  • The basic amount

  • A disability supplement (if you qualify).

To determine whether you qualify for the tax credit, you’ll need to consider your net income and where you live. The CRA website provides full details about the net income qualification amounts.

The maximum amounts you can qualify for are as follows:

  • The maximum basic amount is $1,428 for single individuals and $2,461 for families.

  • The maximum amount for the disability supplement is $737 for single individuals and $737 for families.

Claiming Home Office Expenses Due To COVID-19

You can still claim home office expenses if you’re not self-employed but worked from home due to the pandemic. You can:

  • Claim the temporary flat amount if you worked more than 50% of the time from home for at least four consecutive weeks in 2022. You can claim $2 for each day worked from home, up to a maximum of $500. No paperwork or forms are required!

  • Use the detailed method and claim the actual amounts. In this case, you’ll need supporting documentation, plus a completed and signed T2200S form from your employer. You can claim various applicable expenses, including home Internet access fees.

The Tax Deduction for Zero-Emissions Vehicles

A capital cost allowance (CCA) is a tax deduction that helps cover the cost of an asset’s depreciation over time. The CRA created two new capital cost allowances, which apply to zero-emission vehicles bought after March 18, 2019.

They are as follows:

  • Class 54. This class is for motor and passenger vehicles, excluding taxis or vehicles used for lease or rent. It has a CCA rate of 30%. For 2022, capital costs will be deductible up to $55,000, plus sales tax. This amount will be reassessed every year.

  • Class 55 is for leased and rented vehicles or taxis. The CCA rate is 40%.

Return Of Fuel Charge Proceeds To Farmers Tax Credit

You may be eligible for this tax credit if you are either self-employed or part of a farming partnership in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan.

This tax credit aims to help farmers offset the high cost of the carbon tax.

Eligible Educator School Supply Tax Credit

You can claim up to $1,000 of eligible supplies and expenses if you qualify for the educator school supply tax credit.

The tax credit rate for the 2022 tax year is 25%, with a maximum credit of $250.

Need help?

Do you qualify for a credit or deduction? Call us – we’re here to save you money on your taxes!

in 2023 / Blog / Disability / Tax 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

How to Make the Best of Inheritance Planning

How to Make the Best of Inheritance Planning

Inheriting an unexpected, or even an anticipated, lump sum can fill you with mixed emotions – if your emotional attachment to the individual who has passed away was strong then you are likely to be grieving and the thought of how to handle your new-found wealth can be overwhelming and confusing but also exciting. One of the best pieces of advice in this situation is to give yourself some time before making any binding financial decisions. The temptation to quickly put the money to so-called ‘good use’ or to rush out and spend it can be strong but you must allow the news to sink in and also take some time to consider your options before you embark on the process of dealing with the inheritance. In the short term, put the money away in a high interest savings account and take time to research and think carefully about your financial goals and objectives and how this inheritance can help you to secure and maximize your financial future in the best way.

Although there is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with larger sums of money, here are some useful ideas of where to start.

Reduce your debt burden

If you have significant or high-interest debts, one of the safest options of all is paying this debt down. Not only will you achieve a guaranteed after-tax rate of return of your current interest rate, it can also add to your feeling of financial security and potentially offer you a more consistent financial picture. Debt often carries with it a significant interest rate – particularly on credit cards and overdrafts for example – so in many cases, eliminating this burden should be considered as one of your main priorities.

However, you may like to take careful note of the option below regarding investing the money instead as much depends on the prevailing interest rates and, of course, your appetite for risk, as you may well find an investment option with a potentially higher return more attractive.

Make investments

A particularly effective way of investing an inheritance is to add it to your retirement savings – especially if your nest egg is not looking quite as healthy as it should due to missed savings years for example. Those with lower or less reliable incomes should look upon this option as a great choice in particular.

Be charitable

After considering your own future financial needs, giving some of your wealth away to either charities or to family and friends is a good option to share out some of your inheritance to those who could benefit from it. What’s more, donating to charity can also offer you some tax breaks which may reduce your overall tax burden.

Many individuals see this philanthropic route as offering them the opportunity to do something meaningful and rewarding with their wealth and contributing towards their own sense of moral duty and emotional wellbeing.

Make a spending plan

Of course, you are likely to be keen to spend some of your wealth on yourself and your family, particularly if your financial situation means that you have previously had to be more careful and prudent with money than you would have liked. A great way to do this is to create a spending plan so that you can enjoy the benefits of spending, without it significantly eating into money set aside for your financial planning goals. You could, perhaps, aim to set aside 10% of the inheritance just for yourself and loved ones to enjoy. The proportion will naturally depend on your circumstances but, in principle, it’s a great idea as it allows you to balance sensible saving and investments with some short-term enjoyment of your wealth.

Talk to us, we can help.

in Blog / Charitable Gifting / Estate Planning / Family / investment 0 comments
 by Atlantic Wealth

Federal Budget 2023 Highlights

On March 28, 2023, the Federal Government released their 2032 budget. This article highlights the following financial measures:

  • New transfer options associated with Bill C-208 for intergenerational transfer.

  • New rules for employee ownership trusts.

  • Changes to how the Alternative Minimum Tax is calculated.

  • Improvements to Registered Education Savings Plans.

  • Expanding access to Registered Disability Savings Plans.

  • Grocery rebate.

  • Deduction for tradespeople tool expenses.

  • Automatic tax filing.

  • New Canadian Dental Care Plan.

Amendments To Bill C-208 Intergenerational Transfer Introduces Two New Transfer Options

Budget 2023 introduces two transfer options associated with the intergenerational transfer of a business:

  1. An immediate intergenerational business transfer (three-year test) based on arm’s length sales terms.

  2. A gradual intergenerational business transfer (five-to-ten-year test) based on estate freeze characteristics.

For the three-year test, the parent must transfer both legal and factual control of the business, including an immediate transfer of a majority of voting shares and the balance, within 36 months. The parent must also transfer a majority of the common growth shares within the same time frame. Additionally, the parent must transfer management of the business to their child within a reasonable time, with a 36-month safe harbour. The child or children must retain legal control for 36 months following the share transfer, and at least one child must remain actively involved in the business during this period.

For the gradual transfer option, the conditions are similar to the immediate transfer, but with a few differences. The parent must transfer legal control, including an immediate transfer of a majority of voting shares and the balance, within 36 months. They must also transfer a majority of the common growth shares and the balance of common growth shares within the same time frame. As well, within 10 years of the initial sale, parents must reduce the economic value of their debt and equity interests in the business to 50% of the value of their interest in a farm or fishing corporation at the initial sale time, or 30% of the value of their interest in a small business corporation at the initial sale time. The child or children must retain legal control for the greater of 60 months or until the business transfer is completed, and at least one child must remain actively involved in the business during this period.

The extended intergenerational transfer now applies to children, grandchildren, stepchildren, children-in-law, nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews.

The changes apply to transactions that occur on or after January 1, 2024. If the election is made, the capital gain reserve period is extended to ten years, and the limitation period for assessing a return is extended to three years for an immediate transfer and ten years for a gradual business transfer.

New Rules for Employee Ownership Trusts

The employees of a business can use an employee ownership trust (EOT) to purchase the business without having to pay the owner directly to acquire shares. Business owners can use an EOT as part of their succession planning.

Budget 2023 introduces new rules for using ownership trusts (EOTs) as follows:

  • Extending the five-year capital gains reserve to ten years for qualifying business transfers to an EOT.

  • A new exception to the current shareholder loan rule which extends the repayment period from one to fifteen years for amounts loaned to the EOT from a qualifying business to purchase shares in a qualifying business transfer.

  • Exempts EOTs from the 21-year deemed disposition rule that applies to some trusts. This means that shares can be held indefinitely for the benefit of employees.

Clean Energy Credits

The upcoming Budget 2023 is set to introduce a series of measures aimed at encouraging the adoption of clean energy. These measures include several business tax incentives such as:

  1. Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit: This is a refundable tax credit of 15% for investments in equipment and activities for generating electricity and transmitting it between provinces. The credit will be available to new and refurbished projects starting from March 28, 2023, and will end in 2034.

  2. Clean Technology Manufacturing Credit: This tax credit is worth 30% of the cost of investments in new machinery and equipment for processing or manufacturing clean technologies and critical minerals. It applies to property acquired and put into use after January 1, 2024. The credit will be phased out starting in 2032 and fully eliminated in 2034.

  3. Clean Hydrogen Investment Tax Credit: It offers a refundable tax credit ranging from 15% to 40% of eligible project expenses that produce clean hydrogen, as well as a 15% tax credit for certain equipment.

  4. Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit: This tax credit will be expanded to include geothermal systems that qualify for capital cost allowance under Classes 43.1 and 43.2. The phase-out will begin in 2034, and it will not be available after that date.

  5. Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Investment Tax Credit (CCUS): The budget broadens and adjusts specific criteria for the refundable Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for CCUS. Qualified equipment now includes dual-purpose machinery that generates heat and/or power or utilizes water for CCUS and an additional process, as long as it meets all other requirements for the credit. The expense of such equipment is eligible on a proportionate basis, based on the anticipated energy or material balance supporting the CCUS process during the project’s initial 20 years.

  6. Reduced rates for zero-emission technology manufacturers: The reduced tax rates of 4.5% and 7.5% for zero-emission technology manufacturers will be extended for three years until 2034, with phase-out starting in 2032. The eligibility will expand to include the manufacturing of nuclear energy equipment and processing and recycling of nuclear fuels and heavy water for taxation years starting after 2023.

  7. Lithium from brines: Allow producers of lithium from brines to issue flow-through shares and expand the Critical Mineral Exploration Tax Credit’s eligibility to include lithium from brines.

Changes To How Alternative Minimum Tax Is Calculated

Budget 2023 proposed several changes to calculating the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT), including the following:

  • The capital gains inclusion rate will increase from 80 percent to 100 percent, while capital losses and allowable business investment losses will apply at a rate of 50 percent.

  • The inclusion rate for employee stock option benefits will be altered to 100 percent, and for capital gains resulting from the donation of publicly listed securities, it will be modified to 30 percent.

  • The 30 percent inclusion rate will also apply to employee stock option benefits if any deduction is available because underlying shares are also publicly listed securities that were donated.

  • Certain deductions and expenses will now be limited to 50 percent, and only 50 percent of non-refundable credits (excluding a special foreign tax credit) will be permitted to reduce the AMT.

  • The AMT tax rate will increase from 15 percent to 20.5 percent.

  • The AMT exemption will rise from the present allowable deduction of $40,000 for individuals to an amount indexed to the fourth tax bracket, expected to be $173,000 in 2024.

  • The AMT carryforward period will remain unaltered at seven years.

Improving Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs)

Budget 2023 introduces the following changes to RESPs:

  • As of March 28, 2023, beneficiaries may withdraw Educational Assistance Payments (EAPs) up to $8,000 (from $5,000) for full-time programs and $4,000 (from $2,500) for part-time programs.

  • Individuals who withdrew EAPs before March 28, 2023, may be able to withdraw an additional EAP amount, subject to the new limits and the plan terms.

  • Divorced or separated parents can now open joint RESPs for one or more of their children.

Expanding Access to Registered Disability Savings Plans

Qualifying family members, such as a parent, a spouse, or a common-law partner, can open an RDSP and be the plan holder for an adult with mental disabilities whose ability to enter into an RDSP contract is in doubt and who does not have a legal representative.

Budget 2023 announces the government’s intention to extend the provision that allows this until December 31, 2026. To further increase access to RDSPs, the government also intends to expand the provision to include adult siblings of an RDSP beneficiary.

Grocery Rebate

The Budget 2023 will implement the Grocery Rebate, which will be a one-time payment managed through the Goods and Services Tax Credit (GSTC) system. The maximum amount that can be claimed under the Grocery Rebate is:

  • $153 for each adult

  • $81 for each child

  • $81 for a single supplement.

The implementation of the Grocery Rebate will be gradual and will follow the same income thresholds as the present GSTC regulations.

Deduction for Tradespeople’s Tool Expenses

Budget 2023 increases the employment deduction for tradespeople’s tools to $1,000 from $500. This is effective for 2023 and subsequent taxation years.

Automatic Tax Filing

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will pilot a new automatic filing service for Canadians who currently do not file their taxes to help them receive certain benefits to which they are entitled.

The CRA also plans to expand taxpayer eligibility for the File My Return service, which allows taxpayers to file their tax returns by telephone.

Canadian Dental Care Plan

In Budget 2023, the federal government is investing in dental care for Canadians with the new Canadian Dental Care Plan. The plan will provide dental coverage for uninsured Canadians with annual family incomes of less than $90,000, with no co-pays for those under $70,000.

The budget allows the CRA to share taxpayer information for the Canadian Dental Care Plan with an official of Employment and Social Development Canada or Health Canada solely to administer or enforce the plan.

Wondering How This May Impact You?

If you have any questions or concerns about how the new federal budget may impact you, call us – we’d be happy to help you!

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