In a recent announcement, the Canadian government unveiled plans to adjust the inclusion rate on capital gains taxes, signifying a significant transformation in the tax landscape outlined in Budget 2024. These changes aim to address disparities in the tax system and ensure a fairer distribution of tax burdens across income brackets.
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland presented the 2024 budget, revealing proposals to raise the inclusion rate on capital gains taxes for corporations and individuals surpassing a certain income threshold. This move is expected to primarily affect affluent individuals leveraging tax advantages not accessible to the average Canadian taxpayer. The government estimates these alterations will generate approximately $21.9 billion in revenue over the next five years, partially counterbalancing increased expenditures earmarked for initiatives such as bolstering Canada’s housing inventory.
Key among the proposed changes is elevating the inclusion rate on annual capital gains exceeding $250,000 for individuals, as well as all capital gains realized by corporations and trusts, from one-half to two-thirds. However, the inclusion rate for capital gains below the $250,000 threshold will remain unchanged at one-half. These adjustments are slated to come into effect on June 25, 2024, pending amendments to the Income Tax Act.
According to government data, only 12 percent of Canadian companies are anticipated to be subject to the heightened inclusion rate, while a mere 0.13 percent of individuals with average incomes of $1.42 million are projected to experience an increase in their personal income tax on capital gains due to the proposed amendment.
John Oakey, Vice President of Taxation at CPA Canada, emphasized the potential implications of these changes, noting that some entities may opt to expedite capital gains realization under existing regulations to mitigate exposure to the elevated inclusion rate post-June 25.
In an effort to reassure middle-class Canadians, the Department of Finance underscored the retention of various exemptions aimed at safeguarding their financial interests. These exemptions include the $250,000 annual threshold, tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs), the principal residence exemption, and allowances for registered pension plans.
The notion of tax fairness emerged as a central theme in the budget discourse, with policymakers emphasizing equitable taxation practices across different demographics. Highlighting statistics indicating minimal capital gains among younger Canadians, the government aims to rectify existing disparities in the tax treatment of income derived from wages, capital gains, and dividends.
Contrary to concerns about potential adverse effects on Canada’s business competitiveness, the government contends the proposed hike in capital gains taxes is unlikely to undermine the nation’s economic standing. Drawing comparisons with international counterparts, officials argue Canada’s corporate taxation regime remains competitive even with the adjusted inclusion rate.
Amid apprehensions surrounding tax hikes and fiscal sustainability, the government’s commitment to prudent fiscal management is evident. In addition to proposed changes in capital gains taxes, the budget outlines measures to stimulate entrepreneurship through initiatives such as the Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive. This incentive aims to reduce the inclusion rate to 33.3 percent on eligible capital gains, providing a lifeline for budding entrepreneurs and fostering innovation in key sectors of the economy.
As Canada navigates complexities of fiscal policy in an ever-evolving economic landscape, the 2024 budget reflects a proactive stance promoting fiscal equity, encouraging entrepreneurship, and fortifying the nation’s economic resilience in the face of global challenges.
