The Tax Chick Podcast

Being audited by the CRA can feel stressful, especially with audit activity on the rise. In this episode I walk through what a CRA audit actually looks like and what to do if you or your client receives an audit request, including: [2:00] How audits are triggered (including the difference between a full audit and a limited review)[3:00] Limitation periods, and the basics of what to look for in an introduction letter[5:10] what the CRA is entitled to ask for, and how to respond in a way that’s organized and strategic. [6:55] Common concerns about electronic records[11:35] Solicitor‑client privilege[16:05] Deadlines, and how audits typically come to an end.This episode is for business owners, advisors, and anyone who wants to understand the audit process without panic.RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:Tax LiteCRA Info Bulletin on Audits   HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

Season 7 of The Tax Chick Podcast is here!I started this podcast back in 2020 to help people understand the Canadian tax system in plain language. Six years later, I’m still here, still doing my own editing and producing, and still showing up because this podcast has a purpose.In this short kickoff episode, I share why I make this podcast, what I discovered about my role in the tax community, and how that is shaping Season 7. This season is focused on practical tax education, real conversations with people working in tax, and continuing to make tax feel more human, accessible, and less overwhelming.Whether you’re an advisor, a business owner, a student, or someone who’s ever thought “I just wish someone would explain this properly,” this podcast is for you.Thanks so much for being here! RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:Here are some examples of people you should follow on LinkedIn to get up to date tax news:Joseph DevaneyCaitlin Butler  Hugh NeilsonKenneth KeungAdam Friedlan  Ryan MinorJohn Oakey  Alex KlyguineHERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation with François Boileau, Canada’s Taxpayer Ombudsperson. In this episode, we continue our candid discussion about fairness in tax administration, CRA service delays, systemic challenges, and what meaningful change could look like for taxpayers and practitioners alike.Together, we explore the realities facing taxpayers today, the pressures on the Ombudsperson’s office, and why this moment may be ripe for a broader national conversation about Canada’s tax system.  In this episode, we discuss:[2:00] CRA standards of service and realistic timelines (what taxpayers can actually expect)[6:40] Complaint statistics and emerging trends seen by the Ombudsperson’s office[11:00] The Taxpayer Bill of Rights: what it is, what it isn’t, and how it’s used in practice[15:35] What keeps the Taxpayer Ombudsman up at night and the biggest challenges ahead[19:00] What gives reason for hope, including whether it’s time for a national discussion on taxation[23:00] Practical takeaways and advice for tax practitioners navigating today’s systemThis episode is especially valuable for tax professionals, advisors, and anyone interested in how fairness, access, and accountability intersect within Canada’s tax system.RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:Taxpayer Bill of RightsLearn about Taxes (Resource) - if you are an educator looking for lesson plans, or educational support on the tax system, this website is an excellent resource!MORE ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST:Meet the Ombudsperson!HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

What happens when the tax system doesn’t work the way it should?  Who advocates for taxpayers when service breaks down?In this special two-part episode, I sit down with François Boileau, the Taxpayers' Ombudsperson for Canada, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about fairness, service delays, vulnerable populations, and the future of tax administration in Canada.Described by Mr. Boileau as one of the federal government’s “best-kept secrets,” the Office of the Taxpayers’ Ombudsperson plays a critical role in reviewing unresolved service complaints involving the Canada Revenue Agency.  But its mandate goes far beyond complaints alone.Mr. Boileau explains how his office operates independently from the CRA, when and how taxpayers should bring forward complaints, and why fairness, equity, and access to benefits are at the heart of his work. The conversation also explores systemic issues within Canada’s tax system, including long processing delays, call-centre challenges, and barriers faced by vulnerable and non-filing populations.In Part I of this episode we cover:- [4:45] The Role of the Taxpayers' Ombudsperson- [10:00] Mr. Boileau's career history and what drew him to this role- [14:00] The two roles of CRA- [19:45] A discussion of the 3 step complaints processThis episode is an essential listen for taxpayers, tax professionals, and anyone interested in how public institutions can (and should) serve Canadians better.RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:Office of the Taxpayers' OmbudspersonReports and Publications of the Taxpayers' OmbudspersonTaxpayer Bill of RightsRC193 Service FeedbackCommunity Volunteer Income Tax ProgramMORE ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST:Meet the Ombudsperson!HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

Fall 2025 has been a busy season for tax developments!In the FINAL EPISODE of Season 6 of The Tax Chick Podcast, I share my thoughts on:- The latest Auditor General's Report on CRA call times and accuracy- The new CRA - Voluntary Disclosure Program- The 2025 federal budgetWhile the podcast will be taking a short break, The Tax Chick Podcast will return with brand new episodes in 2026!HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

In this episode, I am joined by Financial Planner, Aravind, for a deep dive into one of the most common (and misunderstood) questions for incorporated business owners: Should I pay myself a salary or a dividend?We unpack the myths, explore the tax mechanics, and walk through real-life planning considerations that go far beyond the coffee shop advice of “dividends are better.”  Spoiler alert: the answer is almost always “it depends"!  Our conversation included:The concept of tax integration and why it mattersWhy CPP is not the villain it is sometimes made out to beHow your business lifecycle affects compensation strategyWhat notional accounts are and why you should careThe impact of salary on disability insurance, mortgage applications, and moreWhy dividends can be a powerful tool especially when cleaning up corporate tax accountsThe importance of annual planning with your accountant and financial plannerCONNECT WITH MY GUEST:Twitter: @aravindsithamLinkedin: Aravind Sithamparapillai - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sithamparapillai/Instagram: @Aravind_sithamparapillaiHERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

In this episode of The Tax Chick Podcast, I am joined by my friend and fellow professional, Michelle D. Coleman, to dig into a topic that every executor needs to understand: the tax implications that arise after someone passes away.Michelle shares her expertise on the common questions and pitfalls that executors face when navigating taxes on death. Together, we walk through the fundamentals of estate administration, tax filings, and why early planning and communication are so important.We cover:The different tax returns that may need to be filed (terminal T1 return, estate T3 return, and more).How the deemed disposition of assets works in Canada — and what it means for executors.Why personal property (antiques, jewelry, collections, etc.) can create unexpected tax issues.The importance of holdbacks, communication with beneficiaries, and managing expectations.Special considerations for non-resident beneficiaries and why CRA clearances matter.The often-overlooked rules around executor compensation and tax reporting.Building a collaborative team of advisors (lawyer, accountant, investment professional) to help executors succeed.If you have ever wondered what happens from a tax perspective after someone dies, or if you have been named an executor and feel unsure where to begin, this episode will give you a clear roadmap of what to expect and why it is so important to get the right advice early on.MORE ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST:Michelle Coleman  HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

If you have been listening to my podcast for a while, you will know how much I value my involvement with STEP (the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners). It is not just about the TEP designation.  What I love most are the connections, the learning, and the high-quality professional development that STEP provides. Honestly, it is some of the best CPD I get all year! So, I am taking a quick detour from regular podcast programming to share with you the exciting lineup of events we have planned for our STEP Saskatchewan Branch! Attendance at STEP events is open to non-members and members.  We are excited to launch the 2025-2026 Season for STEP Saskatchewan, and in this episode, I walk you through what is coming up this year!  All sessions are available in person or on demand - and the topics for this season have broad applicability outside of just Saskatchewan practitioners.  Here is the scoop:September 15, 2025 - We are kicking off the season with a BIG celebration (STEP Saskatchewan is the first Chapter in Canada to achieve full branch status!)October 8, 2025 – Tax Update:  Top Estate and Trust Issues (with special guest, Kenneth Keung, CPA, CA, CPA (CO, USA), CFP, MTAX, LLB, TEP, Vancouver: Doane Grant Thornton LLP)November 5, 2025 – Death of a Property Owner - Planning with Interests in Real Estate (with special guests, Tannis Dawson CPA, CA, CFP, RRC, FEA, TEP, Winnipeg: TD Wealth and Krista Evanisky, JD, TEP, Saskatoon: Clarity Law)April 8, 2026 – A Practitioner's Guide to the Trust Life Cycle: Tax and Best Practices (with special guest, Troy McEachren, BCL, LLB, TEP, Montreal: Miller Thomson LLP)May 6, 2026 – US Cross Border Properties and Estates (with special guest, Mariska Loeppky, CPA, CA, CFP, TEP, Winnipeg: IG Private Wealth Management)RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:www.step.caSTEP Saskatchewan RegistrationOur fabulous speakers:Kenneth KeungTannis DawsonKrista EvaniskyTroy McEachernMariska Loeppky     HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

This mini-episode is inspired by one of the most common questions I get from clients and advisors alike: “What is estate planning?” We hear about it all the time, but what does it actually mean?Spoiler alert: it’s more than just writing your Will!I break down:- The core documents that make up an estate plan- The "investigation" stage- Understanding the "little" tax and the "big" tax- Death foldersEstate planning is about more than documents.  It is about communication, preparation, and making life easier for the people you leave behind. It is a team effort, and it is never too early to start!For more information on this topic, check out Season 2, Episode 10 of the Podcast, "Estate Planning 101 with Christine van Cauwenberghe".HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

Welcome to a very special celebration episode of The Tax Chick Podcast! This week marks five whole years since I hit “publish” on my very first podcast episode. That means the podcast is officially in kindergarten!!!! In this milestone episode, I hit pause on tax talk and reflect on the journey of building the podcast from a simple blog during the early pandemic days, to a globally downloaded show with over 80 episodes and listeners in 75+ countries.In this episode, I chat about:How it all started: from blog posts to podcasting, and the fears I had to overcomeWhat’s changed over the last 5 years (both for the show and for me as a person and professional!)Behind-the-scenes podcast realitiesHow the podcast unexpectedly reshaped my tax law practice and built a communityWhat’s next???  Solo episodes, tax-adjacent topics, and putting into the universe some wishes for potential new guests...Whether you are a longtime listener or just joining The Tax Chick Podcast community, thank you for being part of the journey. This episode is for you.🎶 Special thanks to DJ CWC (aka my husband Craig) for five years of original podcast music!  

In this special (and slightly chaotic) summer edition of The Tax Chick Podcast, I am joined by summer students Frank, Blake and Tone, and articling student, Nick, for a candid and fun game of tax trivia!From weird historical levies to modern-day deductions, it’s law school meets game show in the most entertaining way possible!  WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUESTS?Nick Kane:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-kane/Blake Barnes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-barnes-usask/Frank Chou:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-chou888/Tone Hagen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tone-margareta-hagen-8135b11a5/HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

As a tax lawyer, I spend a large portion of my day discussing difficult topics with clients - including discussions of death and dying.  Often, I am one of the first phone calls after the death of a loved one.  In this episode, we delve into a deeply personal topic: the emotional impact of losing a long-time client.  My special guest, Dr. Brian Chartier, shares valuable insights and strategies for:Letting go of the idea that there is a "right way" to respond in the situation, or that there is the "right thing" to say.Navigating your own personal griefSupporting grieving family members by helping to provide structure, and engaging in curious conversationsMaintaining emotional health in our professional livesHERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

So you finished your estate planning... but do you have a Power of Attorney?Check out this mini-episode for details on:- What is a power of attorney? (2:13)- When should you consider having more than one power of attorney? (4:00)- How do you choose who to appoint as your power of attorney? (6:05)- What are some tips/traps to consider? (7:18)HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

So often when completing our estate planning, we focus on what will happen when the last spouse dies.  But what about after the death of the first spouse?  In this episode, I outline some key planning considerations to keep in mind on the death of the first spouse, including: cash flow planning, access to credit, and practical considerations!HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"

Switching it up today and chatting about a very specific section of the Income Tax Act... s. 160.  This section can be used to assess one person for the tax debts of another person... it is typically applied between spouses and/or between parents and children.  However, some recent case law has resurrected a discussion on this topic, including who is really a "spouse" for the purposes of this section.Update (05/07):  The episode did not fully load on some streaming platforms so I have reloaded the audio!   RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODESTEP SK - May 7 event on Canadians owning US real estateEnns v. CanadaHarvard PropertiesBarwicz v. HMTKHERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP" 

A recent LinkedIn post of mine sparked some great informal discussion about responding to CRA "proposal" letters.  So, it seemed like a great topic to chat about on the pod!Do you know what information/documentation you can obtain through informal disclosure with CRA?  Check out this episode to learn more about:What is a "proposal" letter?What are the usual deadlines for response, and why would those deadlines be shortened?What is a "large corporation" and what rules apply to them?What CRA reports can you access through informal disclosure and why should you ask for them? RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:Informal Disclosure GuidelinesHERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP" 

In this episode, I am diving into the must-have documentation you need to gather before tackling tax season. Whether you’re filing on your own or working with a professional, this episode will help you organize everything you need to make tax time a breeze. Tune in for tips on what documents to collect, how to stay organized, and avoid common mistakes that could cost you later!RESOURCES DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE:The Finance Cafe Chillbooks Season 5 (Episode 17) Essential insights every business owner should know Season 3 (Episode 5) The three gifts that only bookkeeping can give you! Season 3 (Episode 3) Three Common Audit Flags HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP" 

You’ve filed your taxes—great job! But the work isn’t quite over yet. In this episode, I'm walking you through the essential steps you need to take after submitting your taxes. From saving and reviewing your Notice of Assessment to paying any taxes owed, and some tips on how to update your financial records and prepare for next year, this episode has what you need to stay ahead of the game!HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP" 

Season 6 is here!!!!   Check out this short episode to learn a little bit about what you can expect on the pod this season and also for a refresher on some great episodes from last season!  I also include a quick update on what I have been up to the last few months.HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP" 

In this episode, we’re breaking down all the tax essentials for social media influencers, content creators, and anyone monetizing their online presence. From referral codes and affiliate links to brand collaborations and sponsored trips, we cover what counts as income and what you need to report. We’ll also talk about the tricky area of receiving gifts and how to handle barter transactions—yes, those fancy purses and free hotel stays could come with tax implications!Join me and special guest, Jami Monte as we dive into:What counts as income (7:05)Barter transactions and gifts (9:55)Self-assessed HST/GST on barter deals: (16:30)Write-offs for content creators (18:04)Potential solutions if you have messed up on your filings (26:55)Invoicing (29:00)Tune in to learn how to keep your finances in check while you grow your online empire!CONNECT WITH JAMI:Website: jamimonte.comInstagram: @jami.monteYouTube: @jamimonteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamimonteHERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ME:My website! Email: thetaxchickpodcast@gmail.com@tax.chick (IG) LinkedInBe a "Tax Chick VIP"