Dealing with the GSTT can be complex and confusing. With proper planning, the GST exemption provides opportunities to reduce or potentially eliminate the transfer taxes associated with gifting or passing money to younger generations. 12 Mar

Understanding The Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax (GSTT)

Selling or transferring an inherited cottage in Canada often triggers capital gains tax, even though Canada does not have an inheritance tax. If you are administering an estate or planning a future transfer, early tax clarity can prevent costly mistakes later. 12 Jan

Selling or Transferring an Inherited Cottage in Canada

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

It’s worth noting that the generation-skipping tax rate is steep. The positive news is that you can leverage a generous exemption to transfer wealth to younger generations while minimizing taxes.  12 Jun

Strategies for Minimizing Generation-Skipping Transfer Taxes

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