Entries by LS Smith & Associates

Why A Buy-Sell Agreement Is Vital For Your Business

April 1, 2023 in , , /by

A buy-sell agreement is a legally binding document that sets out what must happen to a business if one or more of the owners is no longer involved. It is crucial for businesses as it protects both shareholders and the business itself in the event of a partner’s departure. A buy-sell agreement provides many benefits, including maintaining business continuity, minimizing disputes between remaining co-owners and the family of the departing owner, decreasing stress and uncertainty for all business owners, and protecting business assets and liquidity with a solid financial and tax plan.

Federal Budget 2023 Highlights

March 29, 2023 in , , , , , , /by

On March 28, 2023, the Federal Government released their 2032 budget. This article highlights the following financial measures:

• New transfer options associated with Bill C-208 for intergenerational transfer.
• New rules for employee ownership trusts.
• Changes to how the Alternative Minimum Tax is calculated.
• Improvements to Registered Education Savings Plans.
• Expanding access to Registered Disability Savings Plans.
• Grocery rebate.
• Deduction for tradespeople tool expenses.
• Automatic tax filing.
• New Canadian Dental Care Plan.

Manitoba 2023 Budget Highlights

March 8, 2023 in , , , , , /by

On March 7, 2023, Manitoba’s Minister of Finance delivered the province’s 2023 budget, focusing on these areas:

• Investing in stronger communities.
• Expanding healthcare coverage.
• Providing infrastructure support.

Budget 2023 includes no personal or corporate tax rate changes, but some temporary corporate tax credits have been made permanent. In addition, Manitoba’s basic personal amount has increased to $15,000, and two tax bracket thresholds will also be increasing.

Essential tips and tricks for paying less tax and keeping more of your retirement income

March 3, 2023 in , /by

It’s important to make the most of your retirement income. To do so, you need to be aware of what income is and isn’t taxable, and also how to make the most of the tax breaks you’re entitled to. This article outlines the four main steps you need to take to ensure you keep as much of your retirement income as possible:
1. Make a financial plan.
2. Split your pension income.
3. Buy an annuity.
4. Be aware of retirement-related tax breaks.

2022 Personal Year-End Tax Tips

December 5, 2022 in , , /by

The end of 2022 is quickly approaching – which means it’s time to get everything in order, so you’re ready when it comes time to file your taxes.

We’ve broken this article into the following sections to make it easy to find the tax tips you’re looking for:

• Investment considerations, including how to best contribute to TFSAs, RRSPs, and RDSPs.
• Families, including how to claim childcare expenses and make the most of RESPs.
• Retirees, including essential details about applying for CPP and OAS.