We solve serious CRA tax problems

Spousal RRSP Withdrawals and Attribution

One spouse can make contributions to their spouse’s RRSP, and such contributions are eligible based on the contributing spouse’s RRSP deduction limit for the year. Where eligible, the contribution amount is deducted in the contributor’s tax return for the appropriate tax year.

Where a taxpayer makes a spousal RRPS contribution, for example in either of 2013, 2014, or 2015, and the spouse withdraws that amount from their RRSP in 2015 prior to maturity, the spousal RRSP attribution rules will apply (regardless of the year the deduction was taken). The effect of these rules is that the withdrawal is included in contributor’s income rather than the withdrawing spouse’s income, and no income splitting is possible. The rules were design to prevent abusive uses of RRSPs.

The amount attributed back to taxpayer is the lesser of:

  • The amount contributed to the spouse’s RRSP in 2013, 2014 and 2015; and
  • The amount withdrawn from the spouse’s RRSP in 2015.
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.

Testimonial

Sam Faris reduced the significant unreported income based on net worth audit to be nil. Sam’s approach in fighting these types of complex audits is unique and sophisticated. He found countless mistakes made by the auditor which were rectified when Sam appealed the audit decision. Instead of owing significant amount of taxes, Sam reduced it to zero. I highly recommend to hire Sam for this type of audits and any CRA problem.”

E.M., Ottawa