11 strategies to save tax

November 4, 2013 | Last updated on November 4, 2013
2 min read
  • Incorporated company

    If you’re a business owner with an incorporated company, you can receive both year-end corporate income tax deductions and a structured retirement savings plan through an Individual Pension Plan.

  • Salaries for family members

    Business owners should pay out salaries to family members before December 31. This strategy potentially provides earned income that enables them to make an RRSP contribution the following year, as well as a tax deduction in the current year.

  • Purchasing assets

    If you plan to buy assets (e.g., a computer) for your business, go shopping before the end of the year. This way, you can claim depreciation on the assets for tax purposes.

  • Quarterly payments to CRA

    If you make quarterly tax installment payments to the CRA, you need to make final payments by December 15 of the current year to avoid late interest charges.

  • Fees

    Pay all outstanding fees by the end of the year to ensure they count toward the current year’s tax return. This can include: investment management fees; tuition fees; safety deposit box fees; accounting and legal fees; childcare expenses; alimony; medical expenses; and any business expenses.

  • 3 tips for business owners

    • Incorporated company

      If you’re a business owner with an incorporated company, you can receive both year-end corporate income tax deductions and a structured retirement savings plan through an Individual Pension Plan.

    • Salaries for family members

      Business owners should pay out salaries to family members before December 31. This strategy potentially provides earned income that enables them to make an RRSP contribution the following year, as well as a tax deduction in the current year.

    • Purchasing assets

      If you plan to buy assets (e.g., a computer) for your business, go shopping before the end of the year. This way, you can claim depreciation on the assets for tax purposes.