BELL CPA & Associates Business Advisory Group

03/30/2026

HST Reviews: Are Your Filings Defensible?
We are seeing increased review activity from the Canada Revenue Agency regarding HST compliance.
Common issues include:
• Claiming ITCs without proper documentation
• Incorrect place-of-supply treatment
• Filing frequency errors
Many HST reviews are documentation-based.
Periodic internal reviews can significantly reduce audit risk.
If it has been more than a year since your last HST review, it may be worth revisiting.

03/25/2026

Are You Maximizing Canada’s Small Business Deduction?
Many incorporated businesses qualify for the Small Business Deduction — but planning mistakes can reduce access.
Key factors to monitor:
• Passive investment income thresholds
• Associated corporation rules
• Salary vs. dividend strategy
• Timing of year-end transactions
Strategic planning before fiscal year-end can significantly impact total corporate and personal tax.
Tax filing reports the past.
Tax planning shapes the future.
If you would like to review your corporate structure and tax strategy, we would be pleased to schedule a planning discussion.

03/15/2026

Governance and financial oversight are crucial for not-for-profits and charities. The Canada Revenue Agency stresses the importance of timely T3010 filings, transparent use of restricted funds, proper receipting practices, and clear board documentation. Late filings or reporting errors can jeopardize your organization's compliance status, impacting its mission and directors. Strong financial reporting not only safeguards your mission but also protects your board. For organizations seeking support with year-end or filing obligations, expert assistance is available.

03/09/2026

2026 Payroll Update: What Ontario Employers Should Review
At the beginning of each year, payroll thresholds, and contribution limits change.
For 2026, employers should confirm:
• Updated CPP & EI premium rates and annual maximums
• Updated WSIB rates
• Accurate payroll software settings
• Proper tracking of taxable benefits
Even small payroll setup errors can create remittance discrepancies and T4 amendments later.
A quick review now can prevent avoidable penalties.

03/04/2026

Participating in Brampton's Coldest Night of the Year was a heartwarming experience for our firm. Supporting Regeneration, which provides vital services to those in need, aligns perfectly with our commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. A heartfelt thank you to all our generous donors who made a difference! Together, we’re building a stronger community.

10/23/2025

Wondering if an investment too good to be true?
It probably is.
We've come across this video playlist by a CPA out in Alberta that is fantastic!
Please watch, share & be aware.

Heard of "Pig Butchering" Scams? You're not alone- and you're not immune! These crypto scams are sweeping across Canada, tricking people out of their life sa...

05/15/2025

DID YOU KNOW?
The Federal minimum wage was increased on April 1, 2025 to $17.75/hr.
Meanwhile, the provincial minimum wage in Ontario is slightly less at $17.60/hr.
If you are a federally regulated employer who has employees working in Ontario, you are obligated to pay the higher of the two rates (currently the federal $17.75/hr).
For a list of federally regulated industries & workplaces, visit the government's website at:

Federally regulated industries in Canada, including banking, aviation, telecommunications and more, regulated by the Canada Labour Code.

02/12/2025

I don't think any of us can deny that this has been a cold & snowy winter! Thinking about those who are struggling with finding safe, affordable housing has us wanting to find ways to help. Our firm will be walking in Brampton's Coldest Night of the Year on Feb. 22nd to raise funds for Regeneration Outreach. We urge you to think about how you can help out in your community.

The Coldest Night of the Year is a winterrific family-friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Let’s change the tune for people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness... because it’s cold out there.

01/01/2025

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
May this next year bring you much happiness and joy, with less stress and worry.

If there's any way we can help you with that, please don't hesitate to ask!

12/24/2024

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to you & yours!
May this holiday season bring much joy and many memories.

12/17/2024

The federal government announced that new, reduced credit card transaction fees for small businesses will take effect on October 19, 2024. More than 90 per cent of small- and medium-sized businesses that accept credit cards will receive lower rates and see interchange fees reduced by up to 27 per cent. These fee reductions are expected to save eligible small businesses about $1 billion over five years. The federal government expects all members of the credit card industry, including payment processors, to pass these savings on directly to small businesses. The federal government negotiated and finalized new agreements with Visa and Mastercard, which also protect reward points offered to Canadian consumers.