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5 Things to Know Today: Key Money Headlines for Canadians

1. Spring Economic Update Lands Today Finance Minister François‑Philippe Champagne tables the 2026 Spring Economic Update this afternoon, outlining Ottawa’s latest fiscal outlook and new measures aimed at supporting Canadians amid global instability. 2. Fuel Excise Tax Temporarily Suspended Prime Minister Mark Carney has paused the federal excise tax on gas, diesel, and aviation fuel , offering short‑term relief as energy prices remain elevated due to geopolitical tensions.  3. Canada’s First Sovereign Wealth Fund Announced Carney has unveiled the Canada Strong Fund , the country’s first sovereign wealth fund, designed to finance major national infrastructure and economic‑building projects in partnership with the private sector.  4. CPP & OAS Payments Arrive Today New CPP and OAS payments are being issued today, including adjustments for seniors affected by recovery tax calculations, which are spread across monthly OAS payments.  5. Global Instability Conti...
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Can You Write Off Home Renovations in Canada?


When it comes to home renovations in Canada, the tax landscape can be a bit narrow for existing homeowners. However, there are still some key considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Principal Residence Exemption: This is the big one. When you sell your primary home, the principal residence exemption allows you to avoid capital gains tax. But beware! As of January 1, 2023, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) tightened the rules. Housing units sold after less than a year of ownership are now excluded, with certain exceptions like death and disability. So, watch out for those anti-flipping rules!

  2. Profit Shielding: Unlike the United States, Canada doesn’t cap the amount of profit shielded from taxes. Existing homeowners rely on their homes as a store of value for retirement, and any significant shift in tax policy would be a political nightmare.

  3. First Home Savings Account (FHSA): If you’re a future buyer, the FHSA is your friend. It’s like a slam dunk for first-time homebuyers. Contributions are tax-free on the way in (similar to an RRSP) and tax-free on the way out (like a TFSA). You can contribute up to $8,000 annually, up to $40,000 over a lifetime. Just remember, unused contribution room doesn’t carry forward indefinitely.

  4. Renovation Benefits: Unfortunately, for current homeowners thinking about renovating, the federal tax benefit buffet is pretty sparse. But don’t lose hope—there are other avenues to explore, such as provincial home renovation tax credits and specific programs.

In summary, while the tax breaks for home renovations may not be as generous as we’d like, strategic planning and understanding the rules can still make a difference. Whether you’re sprucing up your kitchen or adding that dream deck, keep these factors in mind as you navigate the world of home improvements.

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