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- Brenda Bryant
Senior tax pro and community supporter
View Their Posts - Peter Coles
Tax research guru with 25 years of experience
View Their Posts - Cleo Hamel
Senior tax pro and national spokesperson
View Their Posts - Doug Morgan
Master tax pro and franchise owner
View Their Posts
Jun-16-2010
Small and medium businesses can now use simplified logbook rules
The CRA has announced simplified logbook rules for small- and medium-sized businesses, so how do they work?
May-11-2012
Working two jobs? Beware of the potential tax bite
Two jobs may help boost your income during the year, but if you haven’t completed your paperwork correctly you could end up owing when you file your tax return.
May-02-2012
What you need to know about the principal residence exemption
The principal residence exemption provides a generous tax break. However, there are some rules you need to be aware of.
Apr-23-2012
How do I pay my tax bill?
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-13-2012
Did you get your maximum tax refund?
As part of the Million Dollar Neighbourhood reality TV show, H&R Block tax professionals did free Second Look reviews on more than 300 tax returns in the community of Aldergrove, B.C. The results showed that almost one third of participants had made errors on previous tax returns.
Apr-11-2012
Ontario government focuses on balancing the budget
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
Saskatchewan budget delivers details of new programs
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-30-2012
Federal Budget 2012
The government is increasing the age limit for receiving Old Age Security benefits and making some technical tax changes which may be of interest.
Mar-26-2012
Ontario Trillium Benefit explained
Wondering if you qualify for the Ontario tax credits? Check out our infographic to see some examples of the Ontario Trillium Benefit payments.
Mar-23-2012
Where else can I go for help?
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-21-2012
Owning U.S. property may mean tax implications on both sides of the border
Found a great deal in Florida? Buying a U.S. property may be tempting but before you sign the paperwork, make sure you understand your obligations to Uncle Sam.
Mar-17-2012
Changes to Ontario credits reduce tax refund
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
Do I really need to file a tax return?
Millions of Canadians will file a tax return by the April 30 deadline but there are thousands that choose to file later or not at all. Not filing can have implications on more than just your taxes.
Mar-12-2012
Determining your marital status
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-09-2012
Who is a dependant?
Your kids may still live at home and eat all the groceries, but the Canada Revenue Agency may not consider them dependants for tax purposes.
Mar-07-2012
How do I claim my student credits?
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
B.C. Budget brings bonanza of tax changes
The B.C. government introduced a new budget on February 21, 2012 which brought a number of new tax credits that could mean some savings. The document also re-introduced the B.C. Sales Tax Credit as the province prepares to go back to PST in April 2013.
Mar-05-2012
How do I claim my student credits?
University and college students need a T2202A Form from their school in order to claim their credits. But what is a T2202A?
Mar-02-2012
Is a service award a taxable benefit?
Besides compensation, employers can use a variety of incentives, gifts and rewards to recognize their employees. But depending on the item, the Canada Revenue Agency may want to know about it.
Feb-29-2012
Your T4 Explained
Every year, Canadians wait for the end of February and the arrival of their T4 Forms. But what do all the numbers on your T4 actually mean?
Feb-27-2012
Thinking of making an RRSP contribution? You are not alone
The BMO Annual RRSP study showed that the majority of Canadians intend to contribute to their plan and deposit about the same or a little more this tax year. But market volatility is still a concern for more than two thirds of RRSP contributors.
Feb-22-2012
RRSP contributions: clearing up first-60-days confusing
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-20-2012
What is my RRSP contribution limit?
Canadians thinking of contributing to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) before the February 29 deadline need to make sure the deposit is within their contribution limit.
Feb-16-2012
Opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan should be a priority for the disabled
Recent tax changes make it more advantageous than ever to open a Registered Disability Savings Pan if you or a family member is disabled.
Feb-13-2012
NETFILE system opens today
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.
Feb-10-2012
There is a lot of paperwork for U.S. citizens in Canada. Here’s some help
There are thousands of U.S. citizens living in Canada who did not realize they have tax filing obligations with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you are behind, you need to collect the right paperwork and understand the Canada-U.S. tax treaty.
Feb-08-2012
Students studying outside of Canada get a tax break
The last federal budget made it easier for students studying outside of Canada to claim their tuition as well as qualify for the education and textbook amounts.
Feb-06-2012
Explaining the caregiver amount
One of the most commonly missed tax credits is the caregiver amount. If you are caring for a family member, you might be eligible to take advantage of this tax credit.
Feb-03-2012
Looking to retire early? CPP changes may make you think twice
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) changed on January 1, 2012 to reflect the fact people are no longer retiring at age 65. Whether you decide to retire early or keep working, the CPP changes will affect you.
Feb-01-2012
Tax Free Savings Accounts still causing taxpayer confusion
Tax Free Savings Accounts (TSFA) may be a legal tax shelter but a recent survey by ING Direct shows Canadians are still trying to figure out the best way to use them.
Feb-01-2012
EcoENERGY grant program ends abruptly
New applications for the EcoENERGY Retrofit program are no longer being accepted as of January 29, 2012.
Jan-30-2012
What is the education amount?
Students ask us if they can claim food plans and residence fees on their tax returns. In most cases the answer is no, but the education amount is meant to help offset some living expenses like housing and food.
Jan-25-2012
H&R Block offers a little extra help this tax season
2011 was a tough economic year for many, and filing a tax return may be the least of their worries. But not filing means you could miss out on benefits. To make this time a little easier, if you earned no income in 2011 we will do your tax return for free
Jan-23-2012
Is there money hiding in your old tax returns?
Last August, H&R Block tax pros reviewed more than 300 tax returns in the town of Aldergrove, B.C., as part of the new reality TV show Million Dollar Neighbourhood. We found more than $50,000.
Jan-23-2012
H&R Block’s Second Look program uncovers $50,000 in tax refunds
Our tax professionals were invited to be part of the new reality series Million Dollar Neighbourhood, airing on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network (Canada). We checked more than 300 tax returns and found thousands of hidden dollars.
Jan-20-2012
What is an FBAR?
As more U.S. citizens in Canada catch up on their American tax obligations, they are finding out that filing a U.S. tax return may involve more than just one form. The Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) may not be due until June 30 but it is just as important as the 1040 Form to report income.
Jan-17-2012
Understanding the new Children’s Art Tax Credit
The tax rules remain largely unchanged for 2011, but one important addition for parents is the new Children’s Art Tax Credit. The credit gives a break for kids taking cultural, recreational and developmental programs, as well as artistic ones.
Jan-15-2012
Are You Required to Change Work Locations in Order to Claim Moving Expenses?
A recent Tax Court of Canada decision suggests that you do not necessarily have to change your job location in order to claim moving expenses.
Jan-13-2012
Were you considered self-employed in 2011?
The needs of employers have changed in the last few years, with many looking for flexible staffing options. This often leaves people confused when it comes to how to file their tax returns.
Jan-12-2012
What’s new on your 2011 tax return
Not everyone is looking forward to filing their taxes but there are some new credits and deductions available for 2011 that may result in tax savings. Keep all your receipts and claim everything available in order to maximize your return.
Jan-11-2012
Students should claim the textbook tax credit
The Textbook Tax Credit is designed to help with some of the costs of attending school.
Jan-09-2012
Do you take transit? There is a tax credit for that
Taking transit regularly is good for the world and often delivers tax savings, but only specific passes qualify.
Jan-05-2012
How soon can I file my tax return?
Some people cannot wait to file their tax return, to feel proactive and efficient. If you are one of those people wanting to know when you can start filing, here are some tips.
Jan-01-2012
A year in review from a tax perspective
The end of the year provides an opportunity to reflect on the last 365 days. We are looking back at those major events and how they could impact your tax return.
Dec-29-2011
Tax Checklist
Use this check list to make sure you have all your tax receipts and slips before you prepare your return.
Dec-20-2011
RRSP contributions up in 2010
Statistics Canada recently released Registered Retirement Saving Plan (RRSP) contribution numbers based on last year’s tax returns. The number of contributors didn’t change much but the contribution amount did increase.
Dec-16-2011
Single parents can get a break at tax time
Raising children on your own is always complicated, and tax time is certainly no exception. But while having primary custody creates more paperwork, some of that extra effort will pay off in the form of tax credits.
Dec-14-2011
Am I a U.S. citizen?
As the IRS searches for U.S. citizens living abroad, there may be some people in Canada who don’t even realize they are actually considered U.S. citizens.
Dec-14-2011
Don’t miss out on 2011 tax strategies
Taxes may not be due until April 30, 2012 but once the year ends, there is little you can do to affect your tax return. If you experienced a life change in 2011, you may want to review your tax situation before welcoming in the New Year.
Dec-12-2011
U.S. citizens in Canada may get a reprieve from the IRS
The U.S. ambassador to Canada made some remarks in early December that may give hope to U.S. citizens living in Canada who unknowingly failed to file U.S. tax returns. But the official word still needs to come from the IRS.
Dec-05-2011
Ontario plans to offer a Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit
The recent Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review may not have been the most positive report but the government is proposing a Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit for seniors. The credit would not be available until the 2012 tax season but expenses would qualify starting on October 1, 2011.
Dec-01-2011
Getting married can affect your Child Tax Benefit
For people receiving the Child Tax Benefit, changing your marital status from single to married or common-law will now mean the benefits will be recalculated before the end of the year.
Nov-28-2011
What is a Pooled Registered Pension Plan?
The federal government introduced legislation to create Pooled Registered Pension Plans (PRPPs) In November as a way to help Canadians save for retirement. It will take some time before they are available but here are some basics on the plan.
Nov-21-2011
Beware of charity scams
The Canada Revenue Agency revoked another charity registration this week. The donors will now face the consequences.
Nov-16-2011
Operating a dayhome requires a few extra calculations
With many parents looking for child-care options, starting a daycare in your home may be a good business opportunity. But things can get complicated at tax time, since business and personal expenses often become intertwined.
Nov-12-2011
Are you running a business or pursuing a hobby?
The CRA has to feel your business can actually generate revenue. If it does not, your efforts may be determined to be only a hobby.
Nov-09-2011
Donating to charity? Always ask for a receipt
Only one third of Canadians always ask for a tax receipt when they make a donation to a charity. This means two thirds of us may be missing out on tax credits.
Nov-07-2011
Holiday parties could result in a taxable benefit
Lavish holiday parties are a lot of fun, but if your employer spends too much money on the annual celebration you could be facing a tax bill.
Oct-17-2011
Some relief now possible for old CRA debts
The CRA may now grant a waiver of interest for any taxation year ending in the ten-year period before the taxpayer’s application.
Oct-06-2011
EI for the self-employed is a commitment
For small business owners, EI benefits could be beneficial but be aware, once you sign up, you can’t get out.
Oct-06-2011
Closing down your business? Be aware of the tax implications
Starting a new business is a challenge and sometimes it doesn’t work out according to the business plan. It’s important to know that closing a business doesn’t erase your tax obligations or GST payments and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) expects you to file all your paperwork before closing your doors.
Oct-03-2011
New Children’s Arts Credit offers another tax break for parents
Introduced in the last Federal Budget, the Children’s Arts Credit covers a wide range of activities and programs and is designed to promote cultural development or artistic skills.
Sep-28-2011
Missed the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Initiative? You can still catch up with the IRS
U.S. citizens living in Canada are finding out the IRS expects them to file a 1040 tax form no matter where they live in the world or how long they have been out of the country. The voluntary disclosure initiative is now over but you can still catch up on your returns.
Sep-12-2011
Tax credit misunderstanding in B.C. explained
Last week, H&R Block offices on Vancouver Island experienced an influx of calls from clients wanting to file a T1 Adjustment. First Nations clients had been told to claim a credit on Line 479 so they could receive a $13,500 tax refund.
Sep-01-2011
Children’s Fitness Credit helps kids stay active
September usually means parents are signing their kids up to play sports, take lessons or keep active. The $500 Children’s Fitness Credit is meant to give parents a little credit for registering.
Aug-31-2011
Hurricane Irene brings some tax relief to lost U.S. citizens in Canada
The Internal Revenue Service has extended the deadline for its voluntary disclosure program to September 9 due to the impact of Hurricane Irene on the east coast.
Aug-23-2011
Did you overcontribute to your TFSA?
Nearly 6.7 million Canadians have a Tax Free Saving Account (TFSA), but the CRA is admitting that contribution rules are confusing and is offering flexibility to Canadians who accidentally over-contributed to their Tax Free Savings Accounts in 2010.
Aug-08-2011
Busting TFSA Myths
The Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) is three years old but Canadians are still not taking advantage. Why are we afraid to save tax free?
Aug-02-2011
Student Tax Credits Expanded
Post-secondary and continuing education students are already eligible for many tax credits. Best of all, claiming your tuition just got easier.
Jul-25-2011
It is back. The ecoENERGY Retrofit program
The popular ecoENERGY Retrofit program was re-introduced in the most recent federal budget with details to follow. Now the information is up and if you want to take advantage of this program, hurry because the deadline is March 31, 2012.
Jul-18-2011
Volunteer Firefighters to get New Tax Credit
Volunteer Firefighters may be eligible for a new tax credit when they file their 2011 tax returns. However, they will not be able to claim both the tax credit and the existing tax exemption on their first $1,000 of honoraria.
Jul-11-2011
U.S. citizens always have tax obligations
The U.S. tax system is based on citizenship, as well as residency. So if you are an American citizen living in Canada or any other part of the world, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is expecting to hear from you once a year.
Jul-06-2011
Teaching English abroad? You may still be considered a resident of Canada
The Canadian tax system is based on residency ties, rather than citizenship. Canadians living and working elsewhere may be considered factual residents for tax purposes by the Canada Revenue Agency even if they are out of the country.
Jun-29-2011
Understanding childcare expenses
Childcare expenses can add up to major savings at tax time but you must meet the requirements or you cannot make the claim.
Jun-27-2011
Not a resident? You may still be able to claim dependants
From nannies to farm hands to personal care workers, thousands of temporary workers coming to Canada every year so they can send money back home. But even their families are living half-way around the world, temporary workers may be able to claim spousal and dependant amounts on their tax return.
Jun-27-2011
New tax credits could pay off
Recent changes could mean more money from your 2011 return. You need to keep your receipts in order to get the proper credit and maximize your return.
Jun-21-2011
On maternity leave? There could be tax complications
A number of my friends are expecting summer babies this year. It is an exciting time but life changes usually bring tax changes. If you are collecting maternity leave benefits, you should understand what you can claim.
Jun-13-2011
Understanding your Notice of Assessment
You may want to file and forget it when it comes to your tax return, but the Notice of Assessment (NOA) summary you receive from the Canada Revenue Agency is an important piece of paper and being able to locate it after you open the envelope can be useful.
Jun-07-2011
Federal Budget Reintroduced
The March 22, 2011 budget was re-introduced in the House of Commons on June 6 with only minor changes.
Jun-03-2011
How the postal strike may mess up your taxes
Canada Post is on strike and that will affect mailings from the Canada Revenue Agency. If you are anxiously awaiting a cheque from the CRA or your Notice of Assessment, you may have a wait awhile. But there are some options to consider.
Jun-01-2011
Moving for work this summer?
If you move more than 40 kilometres for employment reasons, you may be able to claim your moving expenses on your 2011 return. But you need to keep your receipts and records.
May-13-2011
How to Get Your Refund Down to Size
A big refund is not something to be pleased about of if you could have prevented the money from being deducted from your pay cheque in the first place.
May-13-2011
The small business deadline is coming
The good news: self-employed Canadians get an extra 45 days to file their tax returns. The bad news: the June 15 deadline is coming up quickly, and since business returns are more likely to be reviewed by the CRA, you’ll need to know what you can and cannot claim.
May-13-2011
Behind on your taxes? It is time to catch up
Let a tax deadline slip by and think no one noticed? Think again.
May-05-2011
The biggest tax mistakes made by recent graduates
Thousands of university and college students will be graduating this June and beginning their careers. The carry-forward tuition and education credits on their Notices of Assessment look tempting, leading many to make serious tax mistakes this year.
May-02-2011
Top 5 reasons for procrastinating on your tax return
Today is the deadline for filing your 2010 tax return. If you have waited until the last day, you are not the only one. Here are some popular excuses for not filing earlier.
Apr-29-2011
Still time to ask questions
Millions of Canadians have yet to file a tax return. If a question about your return is holding you back, you still have time to ask the Tax Advisory.
Apr-28-2011
Didn’t file a 2009 return in Ontario? That could be a costly mistake
Qualifying Ontario residents who filed a 2009 tax return should have received the first two Ontario Sales Tax Transitional Benefit (OSTTB) payments in June and December 2010. If you didn’t file your 2009 tax return, you have until the tax deadline this year to catch up or lose the first two OSTTB payments.
Apr-27-2011
What if I can’t pay?
Even if you are facing a tax bill you can’t pay, there are steps you can take to make it easier to deal with the taxman.
Apr-26-2011
Only a few more days to procrastinate
This is the last week to prepare your tax return and there are thousands of Canadians who have yet to file. If you are one, at least you are not alone.
Apr-25-2011
Own foreign property? Make sure you file Form T1135
If you are subject to the foreign property reporting requirements, you must file Form T1135 by the tax return deadline even if you have a refund coming.
Apr-21-2011
How are you spending your tax refund?
According to a recent poll, nearly 60 per cent of Canadians have received or expect to receive a tax refund this year. The question is, how are you going to spend your refund?
Apr-20-2011
Filing as a separated couple for the first time
We answered many questions in 2010 about how to file after a relationship separation. If your marital status changed in 2010, filing your return will be a different experience.
Apr-19-2011
How to respond when the Canada Revenue Agency calls
For most Canadians, the only brown envelope they receive from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will be their Notice of Assessment. But for those who receive a re-assessment notice, request for information or audit review, here are some tips for how to work with the CRA.
Apr-18-2011
U.S. deadline for filing taxes is today
Millions of Americans will be filing their taxes today to meet the April 18 deadline. Canadians still have two weeks to go.
Apr-15-2011
Can I claim fishing tournament expenses?
We have answered nearly 1,500 questions online this tax season and some have caused more discussion than others. Just when you think you have been asked every possible tax question, someone comes up with a new one.
Apr-14-2011
CRA changes its mind on medical travel expenses
The Canada Revenue Agency has changed its position on the type of expenses that may be claimed when traveling for medical reasons.
Apr-13-2011
Canadians are not procrastinators
We recently asked Canadians to tell us about their tax filing habits. It turns out the majority of Canadians are responsible when it comes to filing tax returns before the last week of April. But 10 per cent of us wait until the last week, or even later, to file.
Apr-11-2011
Tax checklist for your receipts
Even if you have left your taxes until April, here is a handy checklist to make sure you have all the receipts and slips you need.
Apr-08-2011
The lighter side of tax deductions
Canadians have a very limited number of options when it comes to tax deductions, but here are a few that you may not have thought would result in a tax break.
Apr-07-2011
Joint tax filing can rub salt in the wounds of a divorce
Dakshana Bascaramurty from the Globe & Mail speak to Cleo Hamel about filing your tax return after a divorce.
May-02-2012
What you need to know about the principal residence exemption
The principal residence exemption provides a generous tax break. However, there are some rules you need to be aware of.
Author: Peter Coles
Category: Blog
Apr-23-2012
How do I pay my tax bill?
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?
Author: Cleo Hamel
Category: Blog
Apr-13-2012
Did you get your maximum tax refund?
As part of the Million Dollar Neighbourhood reality TV show, H&R Block tax professionals did free Second Look reviews on more than 300 tax returns in the community of Aldergrove, B.C. The results showed that almost one third of participants had made errors on previous tax returns.
Author: Editor, TaxTalk
Category: Blog
Apr-11-2012
Ontario government focuses on balancing the budget
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.
Author: Cleo Hamel
Category: Blog
Apr-09-2012
Saskatchewan budget delivers details of new programs
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.
Author: Cleo Hamel
Category: Blog
Mar-30-2012
Federal Budget 2012
The government is increasing the age limit for receiving Old Age Security benefits and making some technical tax changes which may be of interest.
Author: Peter Coles
Category: Blog
Mar-23-2012
Where else can I go for help?
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.
Author: Cleo Hamel
Category: Blog
Mar-21-2012
Owning U.S. property may mean tax implications on both sides of the border
Found a great deal in Florida? Buying a U.S. property may be tempting but before you sign the paperwork, make sure you understand your obligations to Uncle Sam.
Author: Doug Morgan
Category: Blog
Mar-17-2012
Changes to Ontario credits reduce tax refund
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.
Author: Cleo Hamel
Category: Blog
Mar-12-2012
Do I really need to file a tax return?
Millions of Canadians will file a tax return by the April 30 deadline but there are thousands that choose to file later or not at all. Not filing can have implications on more than just your taxes.
Author: Editor, TaxTalk
Category: Blog
