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Start Saving Now for September: Your RESP Checklist Before the School Year Hits

  Canadian Money Brief · Family Finance September feels a long way off on July 1. That's exactly why now is the right time to look at your child's RESP — not in late August when the school supply list arrives and the grant math gets rushed. If you have a Registered Education Savings Plan (or you've been meaning to open one), here's what to check right now, and why the calendar year — not the school year — is what actually matters. Why July, Not August The Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) — the government's 20% match on RESP contributions — runs on the calendar year , not the school year. Grant room for 2026 resets on a January-to-December basis, and it doesn't carry any special "back to school" deadline. But summer is genuinely the best time to check your numbers, for three reasons: You still have six full months left in the year to top up if you're behind. Contributions made now have more time to grow before your child needs the money. You av...

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Navigating Uncertainty: Capital Gains Tax Changes Leave Taxpayers in a Bind

The recent prorogation of Parliament by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has thrown taxpayers into a state of uncertainty regarding capital gains tax. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) continues to enforce the proposed changes, which increase the inclusion rate from 50% to 66.67% for gains over $250,000, despite the legislation not being formally enacted. This leaves taxpayers with two unappealing options: file based on the proposed legislation and potentially overpay, or file based on the previous rules and risk future penalties.

The CRA's decision to uphold the proposed changes, citing consistency and fairness, has frustrated many who made financial decisions based on the anticipated tax hike. With the future of the legislation uncertain, taxpayers are left scrambling to decide the best course of action.

This situation highlights the need for clear and timely legislative processes to avoid such dilemmas in the future. Until then, taxpayers must navigate these murky waters with caution and seek professional advice to mitigate potential risks.






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