Clients’ most Googled tax questions

If your clients use Google to find tax answers, they’re not alone.

Read: What’s the most tax-efficient retirement income source?

Google Trends reveals that Canadians’ tax searches increase every year between February and May as tax season gets underway, with a peak at the end of February. April’s end brings another peak in tax searches as the April 30 deadline approaches.

Read: CRA increases Q2 interest rates

Here are the top four tax-related Google searches of 2017, with answers provided by H&R Block.

No. 4: Canada family credits

The non-taxable Canada Child Benefit (CCB) was created in 2016 to help cover the costs of raising a child. Because it’s based on income, taxpayers are required to file a tax return to receive it. For 2018 the CCB increases 1.5% for July 2018-2019 benefits. That means a more than $80 increase annually per child for those who qualify, and $41 more annually for those who qualify for the Child Disability Benefit.

Read: Budget news for RDSP-eligible clients and their families

In previous years, parents and guardians were eligible to receive credits for such activities as art classes, piano lessons, hockey and soccer. The Children’s Fitness and Arts Tax Credit and the additional amount for children eligible for the disability tax credit will no longer be available for the upcoming tax season.

No. 3: Canadian tax brackets

Federal personal income tax brackets and 2018 tax rates are outlined below:

• 15% tax rate on the first $46,605 of taxable income
• 20.5% tax rate on the next $46,603 of taxable income (taxable income over $46,605 up to $93,208)
• 26% tax rate on the next $51,281 of taxable income (taxable income over $93,208 up to $144,489)
• 29% tax rate on the next $61,353 of taxable income (taxable income over $144,489 up to $205,842)
• 33% tax rate on taxable income over $205,842

Read: Essential tax numbers: updated for 2018

No. 2: Income tax calculator

“Income tax calculator” is a popular search term during tax season, but tax professionals can’t provide a quick calculation, as each tax situation is unique.

No. 1: Income tax deadline in Canada

Every year the deadline to file a personal income tax return in Canada is April 30. If April 30 falls on a weekend (it doesn’t this year), taxpayers have until the following Monday to file. The filing deadline for self-employed taxpayers and their spouses is June 15.

Also read:

How retirees can accumulate RRSP room

Tax tips when a loved one dies