Life in the Tax Lane (Canada)

October’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

Hugh calls it the “Super Deluxe Mega Grandiose Superb” edition. The name is a mouthful, but the proposed Productivity Mega Deduction gives the team plenty to discuss. They also cover disability benefit payments, GST/HST issues on property flips, a US tax decision impacting US foreign tax credit claims and a CRA collection notice worth taking seriously.

Take 10 minutes to get up to date on what is new in the wonderful world of Canadian tax.

This month's episode covers:

1. Accelerated CCA – Productivity Mega Deduction Proposal: This proposal allows immediate expensing for depreciable capital property acquired on or after September 15, 2026, subject to important exclusions and Royal Assent.
2. Supplemental Canada Disability Benefit: A recent release confirms the additional $150 supplemental payment, and when recipients should expect it.
3. Quick Flips – Definition of Builder: When does building or substantially renovating a property make an individual a “builder” for GST/HST purposes, and what facts does CRA consider?
4. US Tax Credit Against Investment Tax: A US appeals court decision considers whether Canadian tax paid can be credited against the US net investment income tax.
5. Requirement to Pay: What happens when a third-party ignores a CRA requirement to pay and sends money to the taxpayer instead? A recent court case shows the potential cost.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-october-2026

Learn more about Tax Update 2026 - https://members.videotax.com/courses/tax-update-2026

Learn more about Newbies to Ninjas: Corporate Tax, 12th Edition - https://members.videotax.com/courses/newbies-to-ninjas-corporate-tax-12th-edition

Program Recorded: September 16, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2026, All Rights Reserved.

September’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

Back-to-school season comes with a few lessons for tax practitioners too. This month, the Video Tax News team looks at cautionary court cases, practical CRA guidance on voluntary disclosures, and one heroic accountant whose recordkeeping made all the difference.

Take 10 minutes to get up to date on what is new in the wonderful world of Canadian tax.

This month's episode covers:

• Life Insurance – Return of Premiums: Could a client getting their term life insurance premiums back result in an unexpected tax bill?
• Taxpayer Due Diligence: Recent court cases offer cautionary examples of clients failing to demonstrate taxpayer due diligence.
• Voluntary Disclosures – CRA Q&A: CRA provides guidance on pre-disclosure discussions, VDP eligibility and non-compliance extending beyond the minimum reporting period.
• Aggressive Tax Claims – Statute-Barred Period and Penalties: Recent court cases highlight why CRA may be able to reopen otherwise statute-barred years, including unsupported tax claims and credibility issues.
• Supporting Documentation: A positive court outcome shows the value of an accountant’s working papers when a client’s original invoices are no longer available.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-september-2026

Learn more about Tax Update 2026 - https://members.videotax.com/courses/tax-update-2026

Learn more about Bare Trust T3 Reporting: Practical Guide & Examples - https://members.videotax.com/courses/bare-trust-t3-reporting-practical-guide-examples

Program Recorded: August 26, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2026, All Rights Reserved.

August’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

What does a recent Alberta court decision mean for executors seeking access to digital assets? How could CRA's response to privacy breaches affect tax practitioners? And what should you know about trust reporting, overlooked GST input tax credits and dispute resolution?

These developments have practical implications for estate administration, taxpayer privacy, GST compliance, trust reporting and tax disputes. In this month's episode, Cait and Hugh review recent CRA guidance and court decisions, highlighting what tax professionals should be watching. Despite the summer recess, there was no shortage of tax developments.

Take 10 minutes to get up to date on the latest CRA guidance and court decisions.

This month's episode covers:

• Digital Assets: Alberta court considers whether technology companies can require executors to obtain court orders before releasing digital assets.
• Taxpayer Information – Privacy Commissioner Report: New recommendations could affect e-filer screening and CRA's approach to protecting taxpayer information.
• Trust Reporting – Schedule 15 Penalties: Could earlier trust filings trigger unexpected Schedule 15 penalties?
• Judicial Review – Extension for Application: Missing a legislated deadline can permanently close off dispute resolution options.
• Overlooked Input Tax Credits (ITCs): CRA discusses whether overlooked ITCs should be added to an earlier GST return or claimed on a later return.
• Travel From Home To Work – Long Commute: A recent court decision considers whether an exceptionally long commute changes the tax treatment of travel costs. Spoiler alert, it doesn't.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-august-2026

Learn more about Tax Update 2026 - https://members.videotax.com/courses/tax-update-2026
Learn more about Bare Trust T3 Reporting: Practical Guide & Examples - https://members.videotax.com/courses/bare-trust-t3-reporting-practical-guide-examples

Program Recorded: July 23, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2026, All Rights Reserved.

July’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

Could a missed CRA online notice cost your client the right to object? When do repeated missing T-slips trigger penalties? And what do the latest CRA guidance on the Voluntary Disclosures Program and recent court decisions mean for your practice?

These are practical developments with real implications for compliance, dispute resolution and tax planning.

In this month's episode, Cait and Hugh discuss these issues and more, including recent legislative developments, highlighting what tax professionals should be watching for as the summer unfolds.

Take 10 minutes to get current on the latest legislative, administrative and court developments.

This month's episode covers:

• Legislative Update: Bill C-30 has received Royal Assent, but significant measures in Bill C-31 remain outstanding, including the proposed automatic filing regime for certain low-income taxpayers.
• Late Objection – Online Communication Issues: Could a missed CRA notification cost your client their objection rights?
• Voluntary Disclosure Program – Concerns? CRA provides further clarity on the revised VDP and addresses common questions from taxpayers and practitioners.
• Taxpayer Relief – Missing Slips: Can a simple oversight lead to a penalty for repeated failure to report income?
• Fees Paid for Investment Counsel – Tax Planning? What types of planning fees qualify for a deduction? A recent court decision explores the distinction.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-july-2026

Learn more about Tax Update 2026 - https://members.videotax.com/courses/tax-update-2026
Learn more about Bare Trust T3 Reporting: Practical Guide & Examples - https://members.videotax.com/courses/bare-trust-t3-reporting-practical-guide-examples

Program Recorded: June 25, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2026, All Rights Reserved.

June’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

Are you prepared for the new tiered corporation dividend refund rules? What about the recent CRA guidance affecting carbon rebate adjustments and GST/HST on mutual fund trailing commissions?

These are practical developments with real implications for compliance, planning and client service.

In this month’s episode, Cait and Hugh discuss these issues and more, highlighting what tax professionals should be watching for as several significant changes continue to unfold.

Take 10 minutes to get current on the latest legislative, administrative and court developments.

This fast-paced episode covers:

• Bill C-31 – Second Budget Bill Introduced: How will the latest legislative proposals affect owner-managed businesses and their advisors?
• Tiered Corporations – Suspended Dividend Refunds: New rules may defer or even prevent dividend refunds for corporations with staggered year-ends
• In-Person Payments at Financial Institutions – CRA Update: A recent CRA clarification provides relief, but questions remain
• Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses – Adjustments: CRA explains how corrections will occur automatically and when action is required
• GST/HST on Mutual Fund Trailing Commissions – Implementation Delay: More time has been granted, but affected businesses should prepare now
• Large Corporations – Notices of Objection: A recent court decision highlights how procedural missteps can eliminate appeal rights

  Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-june-2026

Learn more about Monthly Tax Update - https://members.videotax.com/products/monthly-tax-update-newsletter

Program Recorded: May 28, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2026, All Rights Reserved.

Note: Late-Breaking Update - May 13, 2026. See full show notes. May’s episode is now live!

What happens if a prior tax return is incorrect? Is the taxpayer required to fix it? And when does CRA contact eliminate access to the Voluntary Disclosures Program (VDP)?

These are practical questions with real client implications.

In this month’s episode, Joe, Caitlin and Hugh break down these issues and more, highlighting what tax professionals should be watching right now.

Take 10 minutes to get current after a busy season.

This fast-paced episode covers:

• Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit – Payment Dates: Confirmed timing may prompt client questions on eligibility
• In-Person Payments at Financial Institutions: Teller-based tax payments end December 2026, requiring process changes
  • Late-Breaking News: On a May 13, 2026 post on CPA Canada's Tax360 portal, Ryan Minor stated that CRA had advised CPA Canada that payments to them are an exception from this change. We will include any relevant additional updates in June’s Life in the Tax Lane. 
• Correcting a Past Error – Is It Required?: No clear obligation to amend, but risks remain
• Voluntary Disclosures Program – Voluntary Application?: Prior CRA contact may disqualify VDP access despite newer guidance
• Objection Deadlines: Strict timelines apply, with limited extension relief requiring clear and timely requests
• US Renunciation Fees: Fee reduction may renew interest in relinquishing US citizenship
• Whether a Business Exists – Research and Experimentation: Early R&D activity may support business status
• Director Liability – Which Director to Assess: CRA may pursue any director for remittance failures, emphasizing due diligence

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-may-2026

Program Recorded: April 22, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2026, All Rights Reserved.

April’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

As personal tax season accelerates, take a moment to watch this episode highlighting recent legislative changes, CRA administrative updates, and court decisions with direct implications for current files and near-term planning. It is a quick way to stay informed, and you might even win a hoodie.

This episode discusses: 

• First-time Home Buyers’ GST/HST Rebate – Now Open for Application: earlier effective date than originally proposed
• SimpleFile and More: program returns with availability for eligible taxpayers who were not previously invited
• Tax Disputes – Use of AI: a recent court decision highlights the risks of undisclosed AI use and unreliable, AI-generated citations
• Loan Restructuring for Interest Deduction: planning opportunities remain available, but require robust documentation and strong factual support
• GST/HST Paid in Error – Rebate Deadline: 
• court confirms the strict application of the two-year limitation period
• Putting Family on Title Exposes Them to Tax Liabilities: legal title transfers can expose individuals to unexpected transferee tax liabilities

Also, this month introduces a Mystery Word Contest, with two hoodies up for grabs. Watch the episode to find the word and enter.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-april-2026

Enter the Mystery Word contest: https://videotax.com/mystery-word-contest-litl-2026

Learn more about available courses: https://members.videotax.com/courses

Program Recorded: March 25, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2025, All Rights Reserved.

March’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

As personal tax season intensifies and inboxes fill faster than they can be cleared, take a 10-minute break from T1 triage to review recent legislative action and court decisions with direct implications for compliance, documentation, and reassessment risk. 

This episode covers:

• Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit: This benefit replacing the GST credit and providing enhancements with increased payments coming soon. 
• Mutual Fund Trailing Commissions – GST/HST: CRA will treat trailing commissions as taxable supplies effective July 1, 2026.
• Corporate Transfer of Assets to Shareholder’s Child: Below cost sale resulted in a shareholder benefit and denied loss to the corporation.
• Under-Reported Income – Bookkeeping Errors: Weak oversight supported opening otherwise statute-barred years and gross negligence penalties.
• Shareholder Benefits – Offsets: The court rejected retroactive loan offsets where there was no clear intent or year end accounting support, underscoring the need to clear personal expenses in the year and document the entries before filing.
• Labour Mobility Deduction – Temporary Relocation Expenses: Employer allowances reduce but do not eliminate eligible temporary relocation deductions.

For firms balancing tight timelines and heightened CRA scrutiny, the episode offers practical reminders on documentation, systems oversight, and resolving issues before they become reassessments.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-march-2026

Learn more about available courses: https://members.videotax.com/courses

Program Recorded: February 20, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information, visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2025, All Rights Reserved.

February’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

With Valentine’s Day approaching, the Video Tax News team shares a timely roundup of tax issues that may not be especially romantic, but are front of mind as filing season approaches.

This fast-paced episode covers:

• Crypto-Assets Reviews and Audits: CRA is intensifying audit activity, focusing on non-filing, underreporting, and weak documentation around crypto transactions.
• Crypto-Assets – Income or Capital Gains?: A recent court case reinforces that trading intent and activity drive income versus capital treatment.
• COVID-19 Benefits – Collections: CRA collections on CERB and CRB overpayments are continuing with a more aggressive tone.
• Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program: Expanded eligibility may allow certain professionals to access significant loan relief.
• Beneficial Ownership: Adding children to title discussed in the context of estate planning.
• Shareholder Benefit on Land Realty Transfer: Non-FMV transfers between corporations and shareholders can trigger taxable benefits.

This episode highlights where CRA scrutiny is increasing and where careful structuring and documentation remain important. Watch or listen to stay current as these issues continue to arise in everyday practice.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-february-2026

Learn more about available courses: https://members.videotax.com/courses

Program Recorded: January 20, 2026

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2025, All Rights Reserved.

January’s episode of Life in the Tax Lane is here!

Happy New Year! Join the Video Tax News team for a timely roundup of key tax developments as we head into 2026.

This fast-paced episode covers:

• Cancellation of OAS Enrollment: A Federal Court of Appeal decision underscores the strict deadlines for cancelling automatic OAS enrollment.
• Election to Stop Contributing to CPP: The Tax Court provides welcome clarity where Service Canada processing delays threatened to invalidate the election to cease contributing to CPP when the individual began collecting retirement benefits at age 65.
• Trust Filing Rules – Bare Trust Arrangements: CRA proactively confirms relief by following Bill C-15 proposals, meaning no T3 filings are required for bare trusts with 2025 year ends.
• Trucking Sector – Lifting the T4A Penalty Moratorium: CRA begins immediate enforcement of T4A filing requirements for payments to incorporated drivers, with 2025 slips due by March 2, 2026.
• RRIF Minimum Withdrawal Proposal – Abandoned: The government confirms it will not proceed with the proposed temporary RRIF withdrawal reduction.
• CRA Service Improvements – Disability Tax Credit: Ongoing delays in processing Disability Tax Credit applications are reviewed, along with recent recommendations from the Taxpayer’s Ombudsperson to better support vulnerable taxpayers.

Watch the free 10-minute video now to stay informed, stay compliant, and stay ahead of the curve on issues that matter most to Canadian tax professionals.

Sources: https://www.videotax.com/web-tips-articles/life-in-the-tax-lane-january-2026

Learn more about available courses: https://members.videotax.com/courses

Program Recorded: December 18, 2025

Life in the Tax Lane is for general information purposes only and deals with dynamic, time-sensitive and complex matters that may not apply to particular facts and circumstances. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for specialized professional advice in connection with any particular matter. For more information visit videotax.com/disclaimer. ©Video Tax News Inc. 2025, All Rights Reserved.