News and Insights

Key Tax Updates: Capital Gains & Filing Relief

March 26, 2025

Sector:

Capital Gains Tax, CRA Relief & More

As a Chartered Accountant in Canada with a deep understanding of the intricacies of our tax system, it is imperative to stay ahead of recent tax law changes and their implications for clients. Canadian taxpayers and business owners should be aware of the latest changes announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney, which will have significant impacts on capital gains tax and reporting requirements. Below, I summarize the main updates, provide context, and offer practical advice for navigating these changes.

Cancellation of Proposed Capital Gains Tax Increase

One of the most significant recent announcements is the cancellation of the proposed hike to 66 2/3% in capital gains inclusion rates, originally scheduled for implementation in 2026. Prime Minister Carney’s decision to reverse this increase is a major policy shift aimed at encouraging investment, supporting entrepreneurial growth, and strengthening Canada’s economic outlook.

Previously, the government planned to increase the capital gains inclusion rate—which determines the taxable portion of capital gains realized upon the sale of assets—from 50% to 66 2/3%. This would have resulted in a higher tax burden for individuals, trusts, and corporations realizing capital gains. However, with this policy now cancelled, taxpayers will continue to benefit from the more favourable inclusion rate.

For additional details on how this impacts your tax planning, visit our Personal Tax Planning page.

Increase in the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE)

Another key update is the increase in the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE) limit to $1,250,000. This exemption allows eligible individuals to realize capital gains up to the limit without paying tax, a significant tool for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The increased limit provides enhanced opportunities for tax-free growth and succession planning, particularly for those involved in qualified small business corporations and qualified farm or fishing property.

CRA Relief for Capital Dispositions

1. Relief for Trusts (T3 Returns)

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has introduced new relief measures for trusts reporting capital dispositions in 2024:

  • Trusts can file their 2024 T3 return and Schedule 15 after the March 31, 2025 deadline without incurring late-filing penalties.
  • This waiver applies until May 1, 2025.
  • However, arrears interest will still apply to any outstanding tax balances until May 1, 2025.

2. Relief for Individuals (T1 Returns)

Individuals are also receiving additional relief:

  • The CRA has extended the deadline for T1 returns impacted by capital dispositions.
  • No late-filing penalties or arrears interest will apply up to the new deadline of June 2, 2025 for eligible returns.

These measures are designed to ease compliance for taxpayers managing complex capital transactions, while still ensuring accountability for outstanding balances. For a comprehensive breakdown of tax filing requirements, please refer to our Corporate Tax Services page.


Practical Implications & Recommendations

  • Review Your Capital Gains Strategy: Given the unchanged inclusion rate and enhanced LCGE, now is an excellent time to revisit your capital gains planning strategy.
  • Update Your Estate & Succession Plans: The higher LCGE can impact succession planning and wealth transfer strategies.
  • Ensure Timely Filings: Take advantage of the CRA’s extended deadlines for trusts and individuals, but be mindful of the interest accruing on any outstanding taxes.

Expert Tax Guidance from Kreston GTA

At Kreston GTA, our team of Chartered Professional Accountants is committed to providing expert tax advisory services. We help clients navigate complex regulatory changes and maximize tax efficiency. If you have questions about these recent changes or need assistance with capital gains, contact us today for personalized guidance.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the current capital gains inclusion rate in Canada?
The capital gains inclusion rate remains at 50%, as the proposed increase to 66 2/3% has been cancelled.

2. What is the new Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE) limit?
The LCGE limit has been increased to $1,250,000, offering greater tax-free capital gains potential for eligible taxpayers.

3. What are the new CRA deadlines for capital dispositions?
Trusts filing a T3 return have until May 1, 2025, and individuals filing a T1 return have until June 2, 2025, to file without late penalties.

4. Does interest still accrue on unpaid taxes with the new deadlines?
Yes, arrears interest will still apply to any outstanding tax balances, even though late-filing penalties are waived for the extended period.

5. Where can I get professional help for capital gains tax planning?
Contact Kreston GTA for expert advice on capital gains tax, exemptions, and compliance with the latest CRA regulations.

tax specialist
tax specialist