Skip to main content

Featured

5 Things to Know Today: Fed Decision Looms, TSX Slides, Gas Prices Climb (Sept 16)

  Wednesday, September 16, 2026 The Fed's biggest decision in years lands at 2 p.m. ET today, the TSX and loonie are both licking their wounds, and drivers are paying more at the pump despite the gas tax holiday. Here's what's moving your money this morning. 1. The Fed Decides on Rates Today — and a Hike Looks All but Certain The Federal Reserve announces its rate decision at 2 p.m. ET, with Chair Kevin Warsh's press conference to follow at 2:30 p.m. Markets have priced in over 90% odds of a 25-basis-point hike, which would lift the target range to 3.75%–4.00% from 3.50%–3.75%, where it's sat since December. It would be the first hike of this cycle, driven by inflation still running above target even as the labour market holds up. What it means for you: A Fed hike widens the gap with the Bank of Canada's 2.25% rate, which tends to pressure the loonie lower and nudge Canadian bond yields — and by extension fixed mortgage pricing — upward. Watch for the reaction ...

article

New CRA Rules for ‘Bare Trusts’: What You Need to Know

 


The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has introduced new reporting requirements for trusts, and it’s essential for Canadians to understand how these changes may impact their tax filings.

Starting from December 31, 2023, all trusts, unless specific conditions are met, must file a T3 Trust income tax and information return (T3 return) along with a Schedule 15 (Beneficial Ownership Information of a Trust). This means that many trusts, including bare trusts, will need to file for the first time.

What Is a Bare Trust?

A bare trust is a simple form of trust where the trustee holds legal title to the trust property, but the beneficiary has the right to all income and capital. These trusts are often used for estate planning, holding property for minors, or managing assets on behalf of someone else.

Key Points:

  1. Annual Filing: Affected trusts must now complete an annual T3 return, including the Schedule 15, for tax years ending after December 30, 2023.
  2. Additional Information: Trusts must provide additional information about reportable entities, including trustees, settlors, beneficiaries, and controlling persons.
  3. Exemptions: Some trusts, such as registered plans and qualified disability trusts, are exempt from these new rules.
  4. Trust Account Number: Before filing, ensure you have a trust account number. Obtain it instantly through the CRA’s online services.
  5. Deadline: The deadline for filing the T3 return and Schedule 15 is 90 days after the trust’s tax year-end. For most trusts, this is December 31, 2023.

Penalties and Relief

The CRA has clarified that it won’t apply gross negligence penalties for non-filing of 2023 bare trust returns except in “egregious cases” of gross negligence. However, it’s crucial to stay informed and meet the filing requirements to avoid any potential penalties.

As tax season approaches, consult your tax advisor or visit the CRA website for detailed guidance on complying with the new rules for bare trusts.

Comments