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5 Things to Know Today: BoC Minutes, U.S. CPI and Cheaper Gas (Nov. 8, 2026)

  Canadian Money Brief • Sunday, November 8, 2026 Markets are closed until Monday, but the week ahead is loaded: two Bank of Canada releases, a key U.S. inflation report and some welcome relief at the pump. Here are five things to know today, and what each means for your wallet. 1. Two Bank of Canada releases land early this week The Bank of Canada publishes its Q3 Market Participants Survey Monday at 10:30 a.m. ET, then the summary of deliberations behind its Oct. 28 rate decision Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. ET. The Bank raised its policy rate 25 basis points to 2.50% that day, its first hike since July 2023, and signalled more tightening was possible if energy costs spill into broader prices. The minutes were written before the post-midterm oil drop, so watch how hawkish the tone is. What it means for you: If you have a variable-rate mortgage or a HELOC, the minutes help show whether another hike is on the table at the next decision on Dec. 9. A hawkish read keeps pressure on borrowin...

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Taxes 2024: Seven Best Tips for Last-Minute Filers as the Tax Deadline Approaches

 


With the April 30 deadline swiftly approaching, time is running out for most Canadians to file their 2023 income tax returns. But fear not, procrastinators! It’s not too late to get started. I’ve gathered some essential tips to help you navigate this last-minute scramble:

  1. Understand the Consequences of Filing Late:

    • For employees, the deadline is April 30, while self-employed individuals have until June 17 (since June 15 falls on a Saturday).
    • Regardless of your employment status, ensure that any outstanding balance is paid by April 30. Failure to do so results in daily compounded interest at an annualized rate of 10%.
    • Late-filing penalties are even steeper for repeat offenders. If you owe money to the government, it’s crucial to act promptly.
  2. Claim All Deductions:

    • Common mistakes arise from “mistakes of omission.” People often forget to claim eligible deductions.
    • Use your previous year’s tax return as a reference to ensure you haven’t missed any potential deductions.
    • If you’re unsure about a specific line number, visit the CRA website for explanations.
  3. Use a Checklist:

    • Anxiety about being late can be overwhelming. Ease your mind by using a checklist.
    • TurboTax Canada provides a 2023 tax checklist to ensure you have all necessary documents.
    • Remember, late returns may delay payments for credits and benefits like the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Benefit.
  4. Pay Attention to Deadlines:

    • April 30, 2024: The deadline for most Canadians to file their tax return. Pay any outstanding balance by this date to avoid penalties and interest.
    • June 15, 2024: Self-employed individuals have until this date to file. Don’t procrastinate!

Remember, if you’re due for a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late. However, the longer you wait, the longer your refund remains in the government’s hands. So, take that money and put it to good use! 

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