We solve serious CRA tax problems

New Year, New Goals – Tax Planning Strategies

The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to set fresh goals and take control of your financial well-being. While many of us focus on fitness, career aspirations, or personal growth, one often overlooked yet critical resolution is proactive tax planning.

At Faris CPA, we can’t emphasize enough how starting your tax planning in January can make a world of difference. By getting ahead now, you can avoid the last-minute scramble during tax season, maximize every deduction and credit available to you, and sidestep costly penalties. Whether you’re an individual, a family, or a business owner, taking a proactive approach will not only reduce stress but also ensure you’re in the best possible financial position for the year ahead.

Ready to start the year with confidence and peace of mind? Let’s dive into the strategies that will set you up for a stress-free and successful tax season.

Why January Is the Perfect Time to Start Tax Planning

It’s much easier to assess your situation and identify opportunities to optimize your tax position with the prior year’s financial records still fresh and accessible. Starting early also offers more time to address potential challenges, minimizing the risk of oversights that could lead to missed deductions or compliance issues, like the CRA tax deadlines in 2025.

Early preparation allows for a thorough review of income, expenses, and eligible credits, ensuring accurate filings. Additionally, starting in January provides the chance to make timely contributions to Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) before the annual March 1 deadline to help you reduce your taxable income.

Key Canadian Tax Planning Strategies

Effective tax planning begins with identifying strategies that align with your personal or business’s financial goals. For Canadian taxpayers, implementing them early in the year can maximize tax savings and simplify the filing process:

1. Organize Financial Records

Keeping accurate and complete financial records is fundamental to successful tax planning. This includes gathering all necessary documents, such as T4s, T5s, receipts for medical expenses, childcare costs, and charitable donations. Digital tools and apps can help streamline the record-keeping process, ensuring that nothing is missed when it’s time to file.

2. Optimize Tax Credits and Deductions

Canadians commonly apply for credits such as the Canada Carbon Rebate (formerly the Climate Action Incentive), tuition and education credits, and disability tax credits. Additionally, deductions like union dues, professional services fees (like accounting fees), and moving expenses (if applicable) can significantly lower your taxable income.

3. Take Advantage of Home Office Deductions

With the continued prevalence of remote work, many Canadians qualify for home office expense deductions. Please note that these are for employees.

If you’re self-employed, you may be able to claim Business-use-of-home expenses for a workspace in your home if it is your principal place of business or you exclusively utilize the space to generate revenue for your business, and you frequently and consistently use it to meet with patients, clients, and customers.

For employees, you must separate the expenses between employment use and personal use of your home. For the business use of a home workspace, calculate the portion of your expenses you can deduct; the rule of thumb is to use a percentage based on the area of your workspace divided by the total area of your home.

It’s crucial to maintain clear documentation of expenses such as utilities, internet costs, and office supplies.

The image features a text overlay saying "Set Your 2025 Tax Goals with Confidence: Partner with Faris CPA Today!" alongside the Faris CPA logo and a smiling woman working at a desk with a laptop and notebook.

4. Plan for Income Splitting Opportunities

Families usually benefit from income-splitting strategies when applicable. For example, higher-income earners can consider transferring assets to a lower-income spouse or contributing to a spousal Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) to share the tax burden more effectively.

5. Review Investment Portfolios for Tax Efficiency

Investment income, capital gains, and losses can have significant tax implications. Early in the year is an excellent time to review investment portfolios to ensure they are tax-efficient. Strategies such as tax-loss harvesting—selling underperforming investments to offset capital gains—can help minimize taxes owed.

Tax Planning Tips for Business Owners

Proactive tax planning for Canadian entrepreneurs and businesses is an essential part of managing a successful company by maintaining its financial health and ensuring compliance with government regulations.

1. Track Business Expenses Methodically

Entrepreneurs and business owners must develop a system for meticulously recording business expenses in real-time. This includes receipts for operational costs, travel expenses, marketing efforts, and utilities. Proper documentation not only helps maximize deductions but also simplifies the process in case of an audit.

2. Plan for HST/GST Obligations

Businesses required to collect and remit HST/GST must ensure that their records are accurate and up to date. Regularly reconciling input tax credits against sales tax collected can prevent costly errors and late penalties.

3. Maximize Depreciation Deductions

Canadian entrepreneurs can benefit from the Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) system, which allows for the gradual depreciation of business assets such as equipment, vehicles, and technology. Early in the year is a good time to assess whether additional investments in depreciable assets could reduce taxable income.

4. Evaluate Compensation Strategies

Entrepreneurs and business owners should review how they compensate themselves—through salary, dividends, or a combination of both. Each method has distinct tax implications, and early planning ensures your strategy aligns with the business’s financial goals and cash flow needs.

5. Leverage Tax Incentives for Small Businesses

Owners of small incorporated businesses should explore government programs and incentives, such as the Small Business Deduction (SBD), which reduces the tax rate on the first $500,000 of active business income prorated for the number of days in the year if there are fewer than 51 weeks in the year. Taking full advantage of these incentives can further reduce your corporate tax liability.

How Faris CPA Can Help

Navigating the complexities of the Canadian tax system can be overwhelming, especially for individuals, families, and business owners with unique financial situations. Working with a Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) provides the expertise and support needed to develop a tailored tax strategy that protects you and maximizes your tax savings.

1. Expertise in Tax Regulations

With over 15 years of service, Faris CPAs are well-versed in the latest Canadian tax laws and regulations. We identify deductions, credits, and tax-saving opportunities that are often overlooked by the average taxpayer. Our knowledge ensures our clients take full advantage of all available benefits and steer clear of tax mistakes to avoid that could lead to audits or penalties.

2. Accurate and Efficient Filing

Working with a CPA ensures all your tax documentation is complete and compliant, streamlining the process and eliminating the stress of last-minute preparations. For businesses, this includes corporate tax returns, HST/GST filings, and payroll compliance.

3. Year-Round Support

Beyond tax season, Faris CPA provides ongoing financial advice and support. Whether it’s adjusting tax strategies due to life changes, managing cash flow for a business, or planning for retirement, our guidance ensures financial goals remain on track throughout the year.

4. Help with Missed or Incorrect Returns

The Voluntary Disclosures Program (VDP) offered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides taxpayers with an opportunity to come forward and correct errors or omissions in their past tax filings without facing significant penalties.

Taxpayers should consider the VDP if they have:

  • Unreported income or capital gains.
  • Missed or late HST/GST filings.
  • Errors in previous tax returns.
  • Unfiled foreign income or asset declarations, such as Form T1135 for foreign property reporting.

Faris CPA can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the VDP process by:

  • Assessing Eligibility. Determining whether you qualify for the program based on the CRA’s criteria.
  • Preparing Accurate Submissions. Ensuring that all necessary information and documentation are included in the application to maximize the chances of approval.
  • Minimizing Financial Impact. Helping taxpayers reduce outstanding balances or penalties where possible.

By partnering with Faris CPA, you gain peace of mind knowing that their tax planning is in expert hands. Proactive collaboration with Faris allows you to optimize your financial outcomes and focus on what matters most—whether it’s growing a business, supporting a family, or achieving your personal financial goals.

About the Author

pro-tip

Pro Tip

ACCESSING THE SMALL BUSINESS DEDUCTION IN YOUR BUSINESS

The Small Business Deduction gives businesses a tax deduction on the first $500,000 of income. This saves an eligible corporation around up to $50,000 in income taxes. There are a number of conditions that have to be met to be eligible for this deduction.

J Ballan
J Ballan
1738865094
Honestly you don’t need a tax lawyer to solve your tax problems with the CRA. Save legal fees and hire Faris CPA team. I hired the team and they handled a very complex audit. Their approach to the audit was second to none. The amount of work and in depth analysis provided to the auditor and his team leader was extremely helpful to reduce the tax bill to a point where I was super satisfied.
Nadeen Awad
Nadeen Awad
1736621506
Sam Faris and his team helped me with a very complicated CRA audit. He was very aggressive with his approach and was able to reduce the tax bill big time. My life is back to normal now as CRA case is closed to my satisfaction. Many thanks to Sam and his team.
Sami Haddad
Sami Haddad
1730671240
Excellent, well knowlegable team and efficient service. Thanks for all your help.
Rula Haddad
Rula Haddad
1730671108
Excellent service..
Atifa Lattif
Atifa Lattif
1730053571
Sam Faris and his team helped me with a very complicated audit by the CRA.their approach and the way my case was handled was beyond my expectations.he saved me from getting a significant tax bill and more importantly CRA was convinced with Sam argument and accepted his submission and my case is closed now. I did not have to go through objection and pay more fee and live restlessly anymore.I highly recommend Sam and his team.
Abe Matar
Abe Matar
1728938693
Thanks you Sam for all your help. You made the work process very easy to us.
He’s very professional and gave me a lot of advice about taxes and my tuition at university. I highly recommend him!
Sam helped me to file my 10 years personal tax returns. He made the process super easy and stress free. CRA accepted the package with no single question asked. He is highly knowledgeable, down to earth and easy to deal with.
M G
M G
1726589253
I interviewed 5 CPA firms before hiring Mr. Faris. During the initial assessment he was able to identify a huge mistake that CRA has done. He was able to perfectly communicate this mistake with me and explained how this mistake should be corrected. Mr. Faris assured me that the CRA will have to correct this mistake which will result in saving huge amount of taxes and penalties and interest. Mr. Faris worked around the clock including weekends to meet the pressing deadline. In summary, he met all his promises and of course did not disappoint me. All these sleepless nights worrying about the CRA are gone now and of course thanks to Mr. Faris who has changed my mind about the accounting and the tax profession forever.
Ana Miletic
Ana Miletic
1726541724
The best CPA and tax firm in the country. Worked with so many CPA firms but Faris CPA is the best by far. Highly professional, knowledgeable, pays attention to details. His fee is very reasonable comparing to other CPAs. I highly recommend the firm.
Dusan Caricic
Dusan Caricic
1726227765
Sam was able to sort out my US and Canadian tax returns as a result of errors made by my previous CPA. He was able to identify every little mistake on the returns and saved me taxes and penalties. I highly recommend Sam and his firm for all tax and accounting needs.
Tamara Dordevic
Tamara Dordevic
1726168345
We approached Sam 10 years ago when CRA was auditing us and our business. Sam was able to handle the audit properly and resolved it to our satisfaction. Since then, Sam has been our family and business accountant. His service is reliable, professional and efficient. Also his fee is reasonable. I already referred to Sam family members and friends who are super happy with his services.
Gerda Saryte
Gerda Saryte
1725833115
MR. Faris has given me a great advice and helped me through complicated tax issues with the CRA.
Sam Faris challenged CRA proposal regarding selling two of my properties. Sam was able to convince CRA that the sale of those properties was not business in nature and not subject to HST. His response was based on detailed analysis and supported with court cases. Many thanks to Sam for saving me money and the hassle with the CRA.
Sterling B
Sterling B
1725482811
Sam is honest and highly responsive. He's a very hard worker and gets things done quickly. I can't recommend him enough.
Peter J
Peter J
1725379584
I recently hired Faris CPA for a tax dispute with the CRA. Sam and his team were very professional and knowledgable in dealing with my concerns and tackled my issue head on. Their communication was particularly noteworthy as they answered all of my questions throughout the process in short time. Definitely recommended.
Brkovic Zorka
Brkovic Zorka
1725358810
Sam Faris is a reliable and highly knowledgeable with what he does. Sam delivered a strong and convincing package to the CRA regarding my case. He worked tirelessly to meet a very tight deadline. He was able to object the CRA decision and knocked down the taxes significantly. I highly respect him on both personal and business levels. He is a man of his word. I will definitely recommend him to family and friends. Many thanks Sam.
Sam deserves all the 5 stars reviews that he already received. He has done an amazing job with regards to my case with the CRA.
Marko Krawcow
Marko Krawcow
1725062049
By far one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve had with a tax specialist. I can truly say this is the most professional and hardworking person I have ever met. He spared no time getting to work, not only was he extremely efficient but a great communicator. If you’re looking for someone to help you figure out your finances, message Sam. I have no regrets, only wish I had done this sooner.
helene ghaleb
helene ghaleb
1725053083
Working with Sam and his team for the last 7 years has been a pleasure. Their attention to details has been essential in assisting me to navigate complex tax and accounting matters. Sam and his team are always prompt in reply to my questions and fully dedicated to my file. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of top-notch accounting and tax support.
stjoseph cafe
stjoseph cafe
1724640445
Lucky that I retained Faris CPA to deal with the CRA. I have no complaints whatsoever. My file was dealt with on a timely and efficiently basis. With the least cost.
CIFS Ottawa
CIFS Ottawa
1724638931
The firm performed tax planning to my organization. I am very happy with the results and the performance.
Will Noja
Will Noja
1724517164
I had a consultation with Mr. Fares last week and explained my issue with the CRA. Sam provided a great advice. Further he recommended not to hire a professional and pay money while he thought that I can handle the issues on my own. Obviously he looked at my best interest rather than to pay him more unnecessary fee. He is reliable and trustworthy and I would recommend him to anyone in need for this kind of services.
Sahar Ghantous
Sahar Ghantous
1724511412
Sam helped me to resolve a serious audit with the CRA. Throughout the process, Sam demonstrated skills, knowledge and expertise in accounting and the tax rules. He was able to challenge the auditor and prove why her assumptions were inaccurate.I feel safe and confident to have Sam and his team as my representative in any future tax and accounting related matters.
Jack
Jack
1724373648
Thanks for your help, amazing service 👍
Working with Sam at Faris CPA was an excellent experience. His deep knowledge and professionalism made navigating a challenging audit with the CRA much easier. Sam was highly responsive, addressing all my concerns and guiding me through every step of the process. I'm very pleased with the service provided and would highly recommend Sam and the Faris CPA team to anyone in need of dependable accounting and tax support.
D C
D C
1724088666
I recently worked with Faris CPA regarding my many years of outstanding personal and corporate tax returns. Sam has submitted all returns under the voluntary disclosure program, he was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. He was knowledgeable, responsive, and took the time to explain everything in detail. Thanks to his expertise, I felt confident in my decisions. I highly recommend Faris CPA, especially if you have the chance to work with Sam!
Sultan Solmaz
Sultan Solmaz
1723822360
Excellent service. Super happy with the way my case with CRA was handled by Sam CPA and his team. CRA was auditing me personally and my business for many years. I involved Sam and he was able to stop escalation and avoid excessive taxes owing to CRA. I will absolutely recommend Sam for family and friends
Nadine Omary
Nadine Omary
1723162990
Thank you Sam for all your help resolving my tax issue with the CRA. You delivered exactly what you promised during our initial phone call. You have delivered a quality work that the previous CPA could not deliver. Your fee comparing to other professionals are reasonable too. I will take absolutely recommend you to family and friends.
Sara Solène
Sara Solène
1723063028
I had an amazing experience working with Faris CPA for my CRA needs. They really know the CRA processes and made everything so easy. They were super professional, always ready to answer my questions, and made sure everything was done right. I couldn't have asked for better help. Highly recommend their services for anyone dealing with the CRA!
I recently had the pleasure of working with Mr. Fares from Fares CPA Firm, and I must say that the experience was exceptional. Mr. Fares demonstrated a high level of professionalism and expertise that is truly commendable.From the very beginning, Mr. Fares was incredibly attentive and responsive. He took the time to understand my specific needs and provided tailored advice that was both practical and insightful. His thorough understanding of the complexities of tax laws and financial regulations instilled confidence and trust.His proactive approach and attention to detail ensured that all aspects of my financial situation were meticulously handled. He was always available to answer questions and provided regular updates on the progress of my financial matters.I highly recommend Mr. Fares and his firm to anyone in need of top-notch accounting and financial services. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to excellence make them a standout choice in the industry.
Nadine R
Nadine R
1722297188
Sam has gone above and beyond in helping me complete my tax filings.The praise he receives in all of these reviews is well-earned. Thanks again, Sam. I really appreciate the job you did.
Glass Gates
Glass Gates
1721855400
Very good experience dealing with Sam Faris and his team. They helped me with a difficult time in my life by dealing with CRA audit. Throughout the process, they went above and beyond to provide detailed responses and analysis to the auditors. As a result, Sam and his team achieved the best results that I would have dreamt to have. Unlike what CRA proposed, Sam and his team were able to reduce taxes from 450k to 15k. Sam’s fee is very reasonable too considering the value that I received back. I highly recommend Sam Faris and his team.
Conrad
Conrad
1719343900
Sam was absolutely amazing, I was in desperate need of urgent tax help with little time left and he managed to get everything done flawlessly in the last 2 weeks! He is incredibly thorough and honest in his work. Truly appreciate him! Thanks Sam!
Ellie B
Ellie B
1719013463
I met with Sam seeking advice on how to approach a realestate transaction properly in order to prevent any future issues with CRA. Sam was very knowledgeable and helpful in guiding me in the right direction. He patiently answered all my questions and provided his expert advice. I am very happy to have come to him.He is very honest, and not just after making a profit from his clients, but to genuinely help them. Thank you Sam.
Khaled Darwish
Khaled Darwish
1719001561
I was referred to Sam Faris by a business partner who had an excellent experience before. I found that Sam and his team are experts with CRA issues and resolved my issue on timely basis. More importantly his fee is very reasonable. Many thanks and I will definitely recommend the firm to others.
Vrej Nersesian
Vrej Nersesian
1718992542
Mr Faris helped me to resolve a very complicated audit with CRA. He came up with a brilliant strategy to win my case against CRA. Thank you Sam for all your hard work and I will recommend everyone who has issues with the CRA to hire your firm.
Shiraz Tufenkji
Shiraz Tufenkji
1718979011
Sam Faris is very pleasant to deal with. I was referred to him by a well known tax lawyer in the city. After dealing with Sam and knowing his expertise with CRA disputes, I decided to fire the tax lawyer as Sam did it all and achieved the best results. I ended up wasting 15k in legal fees when I could have saved it if I met Sam before.
Sam was great. He really helped me with my situation. Highly recommend him. When its time sensitive, he's the go to guy.
Dallas Young
Dallas Young
1718761499
Sam Farris is an exceptional CPA who provided outstanding service when I needed tax preparation assistance.What sets Sam apart is his ability to clearly explain complex tax laws and financial strategies in easy-to-understand terms. He took the time to educate me on the implications of different options so I could make fully informed decisions. His proactive approach identified opportunities for tax savings that I hadn't even considered.Sam is extremely responsive, accessible and genuinely cares about his clients' best interests. He made me feel like a priority and was always available to answer any questions I had, no matter how minor. The peace of mind this provides is priceless.
Sean E
Sean E
1718660820
Sam is a pleasure to work with. He is efficient and diligent. He is very skilled when it comes to CRA and taxes. Highly recommended.
Nicole Calnan
Nicole Calnan
1718647629
Sam Faris is fast and reliable and on top of tax topics. I am looking forward to his knowledgeable and competent support.
Alex G
Alex G
1718611207
Excellent work from Sam with a difficult tax issue I had. Would definitely recommend his services!
Shahbaz Mirza
Shahbaz Mirza
1718409854
Thank you Sam for all your help. I dont know what i would do without your help and support regarding my tax matter.
Sam Faris helped me deal with a tricky situation with the CRA involving taxes paid in the USA. He seems pretty knowledgable of both Canada and USA tax laws and regulations. During the initial phone call, he proposed a plan to address the situation, and didn't over-promise. In the end, the resolution was much better than what was initially proposed. Communication was timely and reliable. I'd gladly use his services again in the future if the need arises.
Mesut Atalay
Mesut Atalay
1717960926
Second to none firm once it comes to accounting and tax issues with the CRA. I have tried to work with three professionals including a tax lawyer before approaching Sam Faris. Unlike Sam, they never met their promises. Sam met every single promise he made. His performance exceeded expectations. Don’t waste your money and time and hire Sam. He is super efficient, and highly knowledgeable with tax problems and will protect you from CRA with the least cost possible.
can can
can can
1717959796
Faris CPA is a firm with high business standards. The firm looked after my best interest and achieved the best results by minimizing taxes owing and provided a business structure to optimize taxes as much as possible. I am grateful for all the help the firm provided.
Baran SOLMAZ
Baran SOLMAZ
1717778800
i can confidently say that Sam Faris is the best out there who can handle problems with the CRA. he helped me to resolve a complicated and massive audits with my companies and got me the best results. he did a perfect reorganization after and now feel i am well protected having him on board.
I approached Sam Faris as I had a complicated case with the CRA regarding my residency status. Sam has performed a detailed and in depth analysis and submitted his findings to the CRA. In conclusion, Sam was able to convince the CRA that I am not a resident and I did not have to file tax returns in Canada. Super happy with Sam service and of course with the outcome.
Essam Alftayh
Essam Alftayh
1717274326
Sam Faris filed my many years of outstanding tax returns under the voluntary disclosure program. As a result, significant penalties were waived and more importantly the my many years of sleepless nights and living in fear are over now. Thank you Sam and I highly recommend him to family and friends.
D Schrager
D Schrager
1717025313
Sam of Faris CPA is an expert with CRA issues. I have waisted significant amount of money by hiring other professionals who never delivered. Sam’s promises are solid and he never disappointed me. Sam’s work quality exceeds expectations. Many thanks Sam and I will absolutely recommend your service to family and friends.
Before hiring Faris CPA, I shopped around and I hired a CPA firm who offered significantly cheaper fee than Faris CPA. I must admit that this was a mistake. That firm promised the moon and they did not deliver. I learned by accident that the firm outsourced my file to a firm in India. I was very upset as I did not consent to have my returns done in India. I lost trust in the firm as the firm mislead me by making me believe that my file is being handled properly and efficiently by CPAs who are knowledgeable in Canadian taxes. I had to fire them immediately and hired Faris CPA. Sam Faris and his team dealt with my case efficiently and on timely basis. As a result, my many years of outstanding personal and corporate tax returns have been filed as promised. The taxes that I ended up owing are way less than what I expected. Sam Faris and his team performed a good tax planning strategy which saved me taxes. Faris CPA fee is very reasonable considering the quality of work that has been delivered and the tax saving that was achieved.Don’t hire a firm who provides cheaper fee as you will end up paying twice. In my situation, I ended up paying to a firm who outsourced my file to India and I came back and hired Faris to complete the job properly. Save your money, time and emotions and hire Faris CPA and they will get the job done to your satisfaction.
Kate Miller
Kate Miller
1716575760
Thanks Sam for your help with our CRA issues. You were very easy to contact and deal with and did what was needed very quickly. Thanks so much.
It was my pleasure to work with Sam Faris closely to resolve my tax issue with the CRA. Sam was efficient and resolved it to my satisfaction. Unlike other professionals that I dealt with regarding the same tax matter, whatever he promised, he delivered with the least time and with a reasonable fee. Thanks Sam for all your help.
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