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Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Climbs to 3,145 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar nearly a week ago has claimed at least 3,145 lives, with search and rescue teams continuing to recover bodies from the rubble. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which had its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and destroyed bridges.  Humanitarian aid groups are working tirelessly to provide survivors with medical care and shelter, as thousands remain homeless and vulnerable to disease outbreaks. The United Nations estimates that over 17 million people have been affected by the disaster, with more than 9 million severely impacted.  In response to the crisis, Myanmar's military government has declared a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief efforts. However, ongoing challenges, including communication blackouts and difficult-to-reach areas, have hindered the full assessment of the disaster's impact.  The coming days will be critical in d...

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Navigating Inheritance Tax: Understanding and Planning for Your Legacy

 

Inheritance tax is a levy on the assets bequeathed by a deceased person to their heirs. While many countries have specific inheritance taxes, Canada does not impose such a tax. Instead, the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) treats the estate as having been sold at fair market value immediately before death, which may result in capital gains taxes that the estate must pay before distribution to beneficiaries.

Who Pays Inheritance Tax? In jurisdictions where inheritance tax exists, it is typically paid by the beneficiary who receives the assets. However, in Canada, beneficiaries do not pay taxes on received inheritances directly. Any taxes owed are usually settled by the estate of the deceased before the inheritance is distributed.

How to Avoid Inheritance Tax Since Canada does not have an inheritance tax, Canadian residents need not worry about avoiding it. However, it’s important to plan for potential capital gains taxes on the estate’s assets. Strategies such as designating a principal residence, planning withdrawals from retirement accounts, and setting up trusts can help minimize the tax burden on an estate.

Understanding the implications of inheritance and estate taxes is crucial for effective estate planning. By being informed and prepared, you can ensure that your legacy is passed on to your loved ones with minimal tax impact.

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