Library Categories U.S. Tax

Although Snowbirds who own property in the United States might find relief from winter, it can produce unexpected financial and compliance headaches for those who don’t take the time to figure out the tax implications if they decide to sell or rent.

Monica Martinez, GGFL’s U.S. and cross-border tax principal, knows that it’s complicated and involves dealing with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Her best advice: “Come and see us at GGFL. It is well worth it for the peace of mind.”

In December 2017, the U.S. introduced sweeping tax reforms that included the introduction of a new tax on international income called the “Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income” (GILTI).

Beginning in 2018, this tax would require U.S. shareholders of controlled foreign corporations (CFC) to include on their personal U.S. tax returns any income earned by the corporation in excess of a 10% return on the corporation’s tangible depreciable capital property.  In future years, practitioners must carefully plan for the impact of this tax.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) signed into law on December 22, 2017, resulted in some significant changes to the U.S. income tax code. As of taxation year 2018, individuals are seeing changes in tax rates, and some changes may also impact business owners of pass-through entities and Canadian corporations.

US estate tax can apply not only to US citizens, but also to Canadians who hold US assets. US and cross-border tax is a unique specialization that is in high demand today, because many clients have US and cross-border tax issues to consider.

Since I have been here at GGFL, it has become very apparent how much the firm truly values its people and places a high priority on mentoring, staff satisfaction, and continued professional development,” she adds.  “This is a place where everyone’s ideas are valued and good decisions can be implemented quickly and locally.”

President Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act into law on December 22, 2017. A number of measures could result in tax increases for U.S. citizens living in Canada. This article provides a brief overview of some of the changes.

Estates and trusts created through Wills (“Testamentary Trusts”) are now divided in to GRE’s and non-GRE’s. GRE’s enjoy graduated tax rates for a three year period and then become non-GRE’s. Generally, any income taxed in a non-GRE estate or trust is subject to the highest personal tax rates AND a calendar year-end must be adopted.

By Krysta Adamski, CPA, CA, WBLI Chartered Professional Accountants Canada’s increasingly harsh winters and shorter summers have resulted in more Canadian citizens crossing the border to vacation with our neighbours to the south. But while you’re packing your sunscreen and warm-weather clothing, are you also taking note of how this trip might affect your taxes? A lot of […]

As personal and corporate tax rates have fluctuated in recent years, incorporating investments has become an attractive option for Ontario residents holding sizeable portfolios. There are a number of potential advantages to holding investments in a company rather than personally. Incorporating creates flexible opportunities to minimize your personal tax liability during your lifetime and at death.

The 2016 US election results are “in the books”, and Donald Trump is the President-elect of the US. But the battles over US tax policy will likely be fought long after the votes have been counted. Some tax changes may be determined by compromise due to the complex system of checks and balances in the US political system.