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Budget 2026 Lands Nov. 5: What to Do (and Not Do) With Your RRSP and TFSA First

  CANADIAN MONEY BRIEF  |  FEATURE  |  OCT. 23, 2026 The federal budget is 13 days away, tax-reform calls are getting louder, and “act now” headlines are about to pile up. Here’s what is actually confirmed, what is just lobbying, and what to leave alone. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne told the House of Commons on Oct. 20 that Budget 2026 will be tabled on Nov. 5 . It is the second budget since the Liberals moved the fiscal plan to the fall, and it lands two days after the U.S. midterm elections. Between now and then, expect a flood of speculation about RRSPs, TFSAs and capital gains. Before you move a dollar, it helps to separate three things: what’s confirmed, what’s being asked for, and what the rules say today. Key dates on your calendar Oct. 28 Bank of Canada rate decision (9:45 a.m. ET) Oct. 29 Ontario fall economic statement Nov. 3 U.S. midterm elections Nov. 5 Federal Budget 2026 Dec. 9 Final Bank of Canada decision of 2026 Mar. 1, 2027 RRSP...

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Temporary GST Breaks: What's Covered and What's Not


Starting December 14, 2024, and lasting until February 15, 2025, the Canadian government has introduced temporary GST/HST breaks on a variety of essential items. This tax relief aims to provide financial relief to Canadians during the holiday season.


What's Included:

  •  Food and Beverages: All groceries, restaurant meals, and drinks will be exempt from GST/HST.
  • Children's Items: Clothing, footwear, diapers, car seats, toys, and jigsaw puzzles for all ages will also benefit from the tax break.
  • Books and Newspapers:  Printed books and newspapers are included in the relief.
  • Holiday Decorations: Christmas trees and similar decorative items are also covered.
  • Video Game Consoles and Games: Physical video game consoles, controllers, and games qualify for the tax break.


What's Not Included:

  • Luxury Items: High-end electronics, jewelry, and luxury clothing are not covered by the GST/HST break.
  • Alcoholic Beverages: While regular beverages are included, alcoholic drinks are excluded from the tax relief.
  • Non-Essential Toys and Games: Items not specifically listed under children's toys or educational games do not qualify.
  • Sports Equipment: Items used exclusively for sports or recreational activities are not included.


This temporary tax break is designed to make essential goods more affordable and provide some financial relief during the holiday season. Make sure to take advantage of these savings while they last!





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