It comes as a surprise to many Canadians to learn their estate may be subject to U.S. estate tax. Indeed, the U.S. estate tax regime is broad and complex and misunderstood by many Canadians. This article will provide a summary overview of its application to Canadian and how to minimize…
Philanthropy can strengthen one’s estate plan. In Canada, an estate plan may integrate charitable donations to leave a legacy to our community while taking advantage of the associated tax benefits. Such strategy can be implemented during the donor’s lifetime or upon the donor’s death. If the donor is a U.S….
Canadians are familiar with the concept of joint ownership with right of survivorship. It is the prevalent form of ownership between spouses. Therefore, it is not uncommon for Canadians to own U.S. real property or other U.S. property, jointly, especially between spouses. Many are of the view that it will…
One of the most interesting and challenging aspects of working in the trusts and estates field is how different the rules can be, not just internationally, but within our national borders. For example, this week I was chatting with my Quebec colleagues about Bill 56 – An Act respecting family…
The benefits of joint property ownership as an estate and probate planning strategy are well known; property vests to the surviving owner(s) on death thus, bypassing the estate and avoiding probate fees. In the right circumstances, joint ownership works great and facilitates the succession of the property. However, what may…
This article is written by Nicole Ewing, Principal, Wealth Planning Office, TD Wealth Parents and grandparents often help fund a child’s education using Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs). These are tax-efficient vehicles that allow contributions, grants, bonds, and income to be invested in a tax-deferred environment to grow for eventual…
This article discusses, at a high-level, estate administration in China and some considerations when someone inherit assets located in China. As mentioned in my previous article, planning for cross-border estate administration with China is complex thus, I must admit the information is general in nature and based on my personal…
An existing tax debt at the time of death can wreak havoc on the administration of an estate and can jeopardize the estate and insurance planning. This is because the Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA“) is not your typical creditor and has statutory powers to seize assets of the estate beyond…
This article is written by Nicole Ewing, Principal, Wealth Planning Office, TD Wealth As an estates and trusts professional, I’ve certainly had my share of conversations about death, taxes, and all the in-between. I’ve discussed the pros and cons of various approaches, tools, and strategies. I’ve helped those who are…
This article will highlight some considerations Canadian advisors may want to ponder when advising clients with assets in China. Cross-border estate and Will planning involving China is complex thus, I must admit the information is high level and based on my personal experience. Will Planning Clients residing in Canada with…