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Trump's 50% Auto Tariff Threat: What It Means If You're Buying a Car in 2027

  Vehicle prices in Canada are already up thousands of dollars since the trade war began. A threatened doubling of auto tariffs on January 1, 2027 could push them higher still — here's what's confirmed, what's not, and what it means if you're in the market for a car. On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that tariffs on all Canadian-made cars, trucks, auto parts, and steel would rise to 50% starting January 1, 2027 — effectively doubling the current 25% rate. The threat landed hours after cross-border trade talks collapsed late Friday night, triggering a separate round of 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion of other Canadian goods and a promised Canadian retaliation package set for September 8. For anyone shopping for a new or used vehicle in Ontario — or watching an auto-sector paycheque — here's what's actually changed, and what's still just a threat. What Trump actually announced The post is specific on rate and date but light on me...

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CRA Ramps Up Legal Action to Recover COVID Benefit Overpayments

 

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is intensifying its efforts to reclaim overpayments related to pandemic benefits. With more than $9 billion still owed, the agency is taking decisive steps to recoup funds from ineligible recipients.

Starting this July, the CRA will issue legal warnings and employ various means to recover overpayments. These actions may include garnishing wages or withdrawing funds directly from bank accounts. However, the agency emphasizes that it will only pursue legal action against individuals who haven’t responded or cooperated and have the financial capacity to repay.

“Our primary goal is to encourage individuals to contact us so we can work together to find the best way to resolve their debt, ensuring a fair and manageable process for everyone,” says CRA spokeswoman Sylvie Branch.

The CRA remains committed to supporting Canadians who genuinely cannot repay their debt. If you’re facing financial challenges, reach out to the agency to explore repayment options.

Overpayment Breakdown

The CRA is currently seeking approximately $9.53 billion in repayments from ineligible recipients. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB): $5.41 billion
  • Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB): $2.67 billion
  • Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit: $1.25 billion

Efforts to recover overpayments began in May 2022, with letters encouraging voluntary payments. Last year, the CRA escalated its collection efforts, including phone outreach and automatic offsetting of tax refunds and benefits against outstanding debts.

While recipients can request reviews of eligibility conclusions, the CRA’s information typically leaves little room for debate. Most issues are clear-cut.

Remember, if you’ve received pandemic-related benefits and suspect an overpayment, it’s essential to engage with the CRA promptly to find a resolution.



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