Ever thought about gifting a property to your children? I recently had this very discussion with my own aging parents. This resulted in some important discussions about our family home, their goals and consideration for the tax outcomes of any decisions made... 04 Dec

Transferring the Family Home: Considerations for Canadians

Transferring property to heirs "inter vivos" offers emotional benefits and potential probate fee reduction, but can trigger an immediate capital gains tax liability and means a loss of control and potential exposure to your heir's creditors.  02 Dec

Gifting Property to Your Heirs “Inter Vivos”: Pros and Cons

While Canada’s tax system doesn’t impose a traditional inheritance tax, estate taxes through capital gains, final income returns, and probate fees can still shrink inheritances dramatically. By leveraging these strategies, you can pass down more of your hard-earned wealth. 09 Oct

Tax-Smart Inheritance Strategies for Canadians

It is important to clearly document and communicate intentions when making either a loan or a gift to a family member. Sometimes we assume a verbal agreement is sufficient but having clear written documentation removes uncertainty and mitigates the risk of disputes arising after the fact. 05 Sep

A Family Feud Unwrapped in Court: Gifts vs Loans

Ontario Court Ruling: Funds transferred to deceased's Daughter were "valid inter vivos gifts" and not subject to a resulting trust. 30 Jul

Court Rules in Favour of Daughter: the Validity of Inter Vivos Gifts

What if you no longer want to include someone in your will? Whether you're navigating a second marriage, dealing with an estranged relative, or leaving your assets to charity, there are reasons to disinherit someone. 13 Jun

Six Reasons to Disinherit Someone and How to Do It Correctly

This case is a testament to how even well-intentioned actions, when shrouded in ambiguity, can ignite protracted legal battles, leaving emotional scars and financial burdens on grieving families. 06 Jun

A Family Divided: Vancouver Condo at Centre of Estate Dispute

There can be benefits to gifting part of your estate during your lifetime (inter vivos), an increasingly popular wealth transfer option for Canadians. Before settling on this option, here’s what you’ll need to consider.  06 May

Advantages of Gifting Assets During Your Lifetime: Inter Vivos

This cautionary tale serves as a reminder of how important it is to carefully plan, draft, and update your Will with the help of an experienced advisor. Doing so can prevent misunderstandings and disputes, and ensure that your wishes are truly fulfilled. 28 Apr

Will Interpretation: Alberta Court Decision Serves as Cautionary Tale

Groundbreaking Estate Decisions in 2024 & 2025 23 Apr

Groundbreaking Estate Litigation Decisions

Canadian Estate Law: The Presumption of Resulting Trust 04 Feb

Canadian Estate Law: The Presumption of Resulting Trust

What is the gift tax limit for 2025 and how does it affect IRS gift and estate tax exemptions? This article will explore the impact of the new limits, explain how gift and estate tax exemptions work, and guide you through maximizing your gifting and estate planning potential. 08 Jan

Reassess Your Strategy: Gift & Estate Tax Exemptions in 2025