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Macklem Just Raised the Inflation Alarm: What Monday’s CPI Means for Your Wallet

  Canadian Money Brief  |  Sunday, October 18, 2026  |  Written ahead of Monday’s 8:30 am ET inflation release Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem has just told Canadians what the central bank is about to say on October 28: its inflation forecast is going up, and by a lot. The reason is oil. With the Middle East conflict dragging on, shipments still curtailed and refinery capacity damaged, he said the risk that inflation broadens and lingers has gone up. Speaking to reporters from Bangkok on Saturday, he framed the coming decision as a simple question: will inflation drift back toward 2% on its own, or does the Bank need to raise rates to nudge it there? Monday is the first real clue. Here is what is landing, what economists expect, and what it could mean for your gas bill, your grocery cart, your heating costs and your mortgage. 3.0% August CPI, year over year 3.2% September consensus (Reuters poll) 2.25% BoC policy rate, unchanged for nearly a year Oct 28 Rat...

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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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