The You First Blog

“Diligence is the mother of good fortune” – Benjamin Disraeli Be Aware: CRA Scams Abound As we enter the full swing of tax season, it is important to remember that scammers posing as CRA agents are also getting into full swing. The CRA has put together a helpful list of things they MAY and things… Read More

“The budget is not just a collection of numbers, but an expression of our values and aspirations” – Jack Lew British Columbia Speculation and Vacancy Tax Declaration Deadline is March 31 If you own your home, you’ll have received a letter from the B.C. government telling you to make your declaration by March 31st. Homeowners,… Read More

The 2019 Federal Budget tabled several proposals that will impact the financial, tax and estate plans of Canadians. The following is a summary of the most relevant budget proposals that may impact You First clients: Measures for Individuals Home Buyers’ Plan Withdrawal Limit Increase The home buyers’ plan (HBP) allows first-time home buyers to withdraw… Read More

“The art of taxation consists in so plucking the goose as to obtain the largest amount of feathers with the least amount of hissing” – Jean-Baptiste Colbert Market Rise Again on Brexit & U.S.-China Trade Optimism Markets rose to five-month highs to close out the Friday session. Renewed optimism on the U.S.-China trade front, combined… Read More

“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it” – Henry David Thoreau Bank of Canada Holds Key Rate Steady The Bank of Canada opted not to increase its key rate on Wednesday and cautioned “increased uncertainty” when discussing the timing of future rate increases. While future rate increases are… Read More