Significant financial and non-financial issues arise during the breakdown of a relationship. This article addresses the various tax claims and related benefits for children that should be considered in the finalization of a separation or divorce agreement. These issues can also be relevant for … [Read more...]
Married vs. Common Law – What’s the Difference Anyway?
Introduction Most individuals who have recently wed realize this will change their income tax status, but common law couples often fail to realize they may also be considered married by the Tax Man. Many are surprised to learn that a different set of rules applies the next time they file their … [Read more...]
How is property divided at the end of a relationship?
The property rights that you have at the end of a relationship depend on what kind of relationship you had in the first place. Are you married? Living together? If you are married, then the property rights that you have come from Alberta’s Matrimonial Property Act. If you are living together but are … [Read more...]
Two Spouses; One Deceased
Ronald Carrigan had a legal spouse, whom he married in 1973, and a common law spouse, whom he began living with in 2000. He died in 2008. Both spouses claimed the death benefit under his pension. One provision of the Ontario Pension Benefits Act states that the person who is his or her spouse on the … [Read more...]