As a Senior Tax Analyst, Cleo Hamel brings a wealth of financial and tax experience to the Tax Advisory at H&R Block. In her role, she is part of a team responsible for ensuring H&R Block tax associates are informed and trained on all tax laws as well as providing commentary on tax-related issues.
She is also the national spokesperson for the Tax Advisory at H&R Block and has been interviewed across the country. From explaining how the Federal Budget impacts Canadians to having fun with Gerry Dee on CBC’s The Hour, Cleo enjoys the opportunity to provide straightforward information about taxes.
Cleo joined H&R Block in January 2000 as a tax associate and was steadily promoted within the organization. She was a tax course instructor, an Assistant District Manager and District Manager before taking her current position in 2006.
Prior to joining H&R Block, Cleo was an independent financial advisor with a broker’s license in the Calgary area.
She attended the University of Calgary and studied French, Italian and Spanish with a minor in Business and is fluent in French and Italian. She continued her education with the university and completed her Management Certificate in 1994.
Cleo currently lives in Calgary with her husband of 16 years and their two daughters, aged 13 and 12. They also share their home with three year old Bear, a Husky Chow mix.
Cleo Hamel's Blog Postings
Apr-23-2012
Millions of Canadians will receive a tax refund but millions of taxpayers also owe money. So, what is the best way to pay your tax bill on time?
Apr-11-2012
The Ontario Finance Minister had warned of budget restraints and potential cuts, with the goal to balance the budget by 2017-2018. The government delivered no changes to provincial tax rates but there were a few items that could be of interest to taxpayers.
Apr-09-2012
There may have been no new personal tax measures introduced, but the Saskatchewan budget did provide details on some new initiatives that will mean tax savings. Those who benefit may include students, homebuyers and graduates.
Mar-23-2012
The Canada Revenue Agency is bound by the Taxpayers Bill of Rights. If you think you are being treating unfairly, the Tax Ombudsman’s Office may be able to help you be heard.
Mar-17-2012
As more people in Ontario file their tax returns, they are discovering there were changes made to the provincial credits that could reduce or even eliminate refunds. The Ontario Energy & Property Tax Credit, Ontario Sales Tax Credit, and Northern Ontario Energy Credit will be paid in monthly instalments starting in July 2012, instead of being part of the tax refund.
Mar-12-2012
Your marital status is determined for the entire tax year on December 31. Make sure to claim it correctly or you may receive credits that you will then have to pay back.
Mar-07-2012
University and college students need a T2202A Form from their school in order to claim their credits. But what is a T2202A?
Mar-05-2012
University and college students need a T2202A Form from their school in order to claim their credits. But what is a T2202A?
Feb-22-2012
Thousands of Canadians will make last-minute RRSP contributions to help with their 2011 tax return. But what happens if you don’t wish to claim all your contributions?
Feb-13-2012
The Canada Revenue Agency officially opens its electronic filing system at 8:30 am EST on Monday, February 13. If you are looking forward to filing your return, here is what you need to know about using NETFILE.
