History of taxation in Canada

Taxes are mandatory payments by individuals and corporations to government. They are levied to finance government services, redistribute income, and influence the behavior of consumers and investors. The Constitution Act, 1867 gave Parliament unlimited taxing powers and restricted those of the provinces to mainly direct taxation (taxes on income and property, rather than on activities such as trade). Personal income tax and corporate taxes were introduced in 1917 to help finance the First World War. The Canadian tax structure changed profoundly during the Second World War. By 1946, direct taxes accounted for more than 56 per cent of federal revenue. The federal government introduced a series of tax reforms between 1987 and 1991; this included the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). In 2009, the federal, provincial and municipal governments collected $585.8 billion in total tax revenues.

Taxing Powers

The first recorded tax in Canada appears to date back to 1650. An export tax of 50 per cent on all beaver pelts, and 10 per cent on moose hides, was levied on the residents of New France.

Today, of the various methods available for financing government activities, only taxation payments are mandatory. Taxes are imposed on individuals, business firms and property. They are used to finance public services or enable governments to redistribute resources. Taxation allows governments to increase expenditures without causing price inflation, because private spending is reduced by an equivalent amount.

The Constitution Act, 1867 gave Parliament unlimited taxing powers. It also restricted those of the provinces to mainly direct taxation (taxes on income and property, rather than on activities such as trade). The federal government was responsible for national defence and economic development; the provinces for educationhealthsocial welfare and local matters which then involved only modest expenditures. (See Distribution of Powers.) The provinces needed access to direct taxation mainly to enable their municipalities to levy property taxes.

Early 20th Century

For more than 50 years after Confederationcustoms and excise duties provided the bulk of federal revenues; by 1913, they provided more than 90 per cent of the total. In 1917, however, to help finance the First World WarParliament introduced personal income tax and corporate taxes. In 1920, a manufacturers’ sales tax and other sales taxes were also introduced.

Provincial revenue at this time came primarily from licences and permits; as well as the sales of commodities and services. In addition, the provinces received substantial federal subsidies. (See also Transfer Payments.) They hesitated to impose direct taxes; but by the late 1800s, they were taxing business profits and successions. Taxes on real and personal property were the bulwark of local government finance. By 1930, total municipal revenues surpassed those of the federal government.

The Great Depression bankrupted some municipalities and severely damaged provincial credit. Customs and excise duties declined by 65 per cent from 1929 to 1934. Parliament resorted more to personal and corporate taxation; it also raised sales taxes dramatically. Before the Depression was over, all provinces were taxing corporate income. All but two provinces levied personal income taxes, and two had retail sales taxes.

Second World War

The Canadian tax structure changed profoundly during the Second World War. To distribute the enormous financial burden of the war equitably, to raise funds efficiently and to minimize the impact of inflation, the major tax sources were gathered under a central fiscal authority. In 1941, the provinces agreed to surrender the personal and corporate income tax fields to the federal government for the duration of the war and for one year after. In exchange, they received fixed annual payments. (See Transfer Payments.) In 1941, the federal government introduced succession duties (on the transfer of assets after death). An excess profits tax was imposed. Other federal taxes increased drastically.

By 1946, direct taxes accounted for more than 56 per cent of federal revenue. The provinces received grants, and the yields from gasoline and sales taxes increased substantially. The financial position of the municipalities improved with higher property tax yields. In 1947, contrary to the 1942 plan, federal control was extended to include succession duties as well. However, Ontario and Quebec opted out; they chose to operate their own corporate income tax procedures. There was public pressure for federal action in many areas. The White Paper on Employment and Income advocated federal responsibility for these areas.

As a result, direct taxes became a permanent feature of federal finance. But the provinces also have a constitutional right to these taxes. There is a growing demand for services under provincial jurisdiction; such as healtheducation and social welfare. The difficulties of reconciling the legitimate claims of both levels of government for income taxation powers have since dominated many federal-provincial negotiations.

Late 20th Century

From 1947 to 1962, the provinces, with mounting reluctance, accepted federal grants as a substitute for levying their own direct taxes. In 1962, however, Ottawa reduced its own personal and corporate income tax rates to make tax room available to the provinces. Because taxpayers would pay the same total amount, provincial tax rates would not be risky politically. Further federal concessions between 1962 and 1977 raised the provincial share of income tax revenues significantly.

Provincial income tax calculations were traditionally integrated into federal tax returns. All provinces except Quebec used the federal definition of taxable income. (Quebec has operated its own income tax since 1954.) Provincial tax rates, which now differ considerably among the provinces, were simply applied to basic federal tax. In recent years, that trend has been weakening. For example, in Ontario, personal income tax payable is now calculated separately from federal income tax payable.

Principles of Taxation

Fairness

The criteria by which a tax system is judged include equity; efficiency; economic growth; stabilization; and ease of administration and compliance. According to one view, taxes, to be fair, should be paid in accordance with the benefits received. But the difficulty of assigning the benefits of certain government expenditures — such as defence — restricts the application of this principle. Provincial gasoline taxes are one instance of the benefit principle, with fuel taxes providing revenue for roads and highways.

According to another view, individuals should be taxed based on their ability to pay (typically indicated by income). The personal income tax is in part a reflection of this principle. Horizontal equity (individuals with equal incomes are treated equally) is not easily achieved; this is because income alone is an imperfect measure of an individual’s ability to pay.

Vertical equity (higher incomes are taxed at higher rates than lower incomes — a principle not at odds with horizontal equity) has been opposed by business and those with higher incomes. They claim that progressive tax rates discourage initiative and investment. At the same time, under a progressive tax system, deductions benefit those with high taxable incomes. In recent years, this realization has led governments to convert many deductions to tax credits. However, this significantly complicates the tax preparation process.

Limiting Growth

Taxes can affect the rate of economic growth as well. Income taxes limit capital accumulation. Corporate and capital taxes reduce capital investment. Payroll taxes reduce job creation. Businesses in Canada have strongly opposed the full inclusion of corporate gains as taxable income. As a result, only 50 per cent of capital gains were taxable when the capital gains tax was introduced in 1972. The inclusion rate for capital gains was raised to 75 per cent by 1990. It was cut back to 50 per cent in 2000.

Shifting and Incidence

Taxes levied on some persons but paid ultimately by others are “shifted” forward to consumers wholly or partly by higher prices; or, they are “shifted” backward on workers if wages are lowered to compensate for the tax. Some part of corporate income taxes, federal sales and excise taxes, payroll taxes and local property taxes is shifted. This alters and obscures the final distribution of the tax burden.

Revenue Elasticity

The more elasticity (the percentage change in tax revenue resulting from a change in national income) a tax has, the greater its contribution to economic stabilization policy. Income taxes with fixed monetary exemptions and rate brackets have an automatic stabilization effect. This is because tax collections will grow faster than income in times of economic growth; conversely, they will fall more sharply than income in a recession.

In Canada, the revenue elasticity of personal income tax is weakened by indexing. Since 1974, both personal exemptions and tax brackets have been adjusted according to changes in the Consumer Price Index. But sales taxes have less revenue elasticity because consumption changes less rapidly in response to changes in income, and these taxes are not progressive in relation to consumption. Property tax yields do not grow automatically with rising national income; but they do exhibit some revenue elasticity.

23 Comments

  1. На этом сайте вы можете найти самые актуальные события из автомобильной индустрии.
    Информация обновляется регулярно, чтобы вы быть в курсе всех значимых событий.
    Новости авто охватывают все аспекты автомобильной жизни, включая новые модели, инновации и мероприятия.
    cr-v.su
    Мы следим за всеми тенденциями, чтобы предоставить вам максимально точную информацию.
    Если вы интересуетесь автомобилями, этот сайт станет вашим надежным источником.

  2. Stake Online Casino gameathlon.gr is among the best cryptocurrency casinos as it was one of the pioneers.
    The online casino market has expanded significantly and players have a vast choice, however, not all of them provide the same quality of service.
    In this article, we will review the best casinos available in Greece and what benefits they provide who live in the Greek region.
    Best online casinos of 2023 are shown in the table below. You will find the highest-rated casinos as rated by our expert team.
    When choosing a casino, it is important to check the licensing, gaming software licenses, and data security policies to ensure safety for users on their websites.
    If any of these elements are missing, or if we can’t confirm any of these elements, we do not return to that site.
    Casino software developers are crucial in determining an online casino. As a rule, if the above-mentioned licensing is missing, you won’t find reputable gaming companies like Microgaming represented on the site.
    Reputable casinos offer known payment methods like Visa, but should also provide electronic payment methods like Neteller and many others.

  3. Доставка грузов в Минске — удобное решение для бизнеса и частных лиц.
    Мы оказываем перевозки в пределах Минска и области, предоставляя услуги ежедневно.
    В нашем парке автомобилей современные грузовые машины разной вместимости, что позволяет учесть любые потребности клиентов.
    gruzoperevozki-minsk12.ru
    Мы содействуем офисные переезды, доставку мебели, строительных материалов, а также компактных посылок.
    Наши специалисты — это квалифицированные работники, отлично ориентирующиеся в улицах Минска.
    Мы гарантируем быструю подачу транспорта, бережную погрузку и доставку в указанное место.
    Заказать грузоперевозку вы можете онлайн или по контактному номеру с быстрым ответом.

  4. Оказываем транспортные услуги с автобусами и микроавтобусами крупным компаниям, малого и среднего бизнеса, а также частным лицам.
    Лицензированные перевозки в Челябинске
    Обеспечиваем максимально комфортную и спокойную транспортировку пассажиров, организуя транспортные услуги на свадебные мероприятия, корпоративы, туристические поездки и любые события в регионе Челябинска.

  5. Теневой интернет — это закрытая зона онлайн-пространства, куда можно попасть только через специальные программы, такие как I2P.
    В даркнете доступны законные , включая форумы и другие платформы.
    Одной из таких торговых площадок является BlackSprut, что занималась реализации разнообразной продукции.
    bs2best at сайт
    Такие ресурсы довольно часто работают через биткойны для обеспечения конфиденциальности операций.

  6. You can find a vast selection of trusted medicines to suit your health requirements.
    Our online pharmacy guarantees quick and secure delivery right to your door.
    All products comes from trusted suppliers for guaranteed authenticity and compliance.
    You can explore our catalog and make a purchase in minutes.
    Need help? Customer service is ready to assist you at any time.
    Stay healthy with affordable medical store!
    https://www.storeboard.com/blogs/health/fildena-and-its-side-effects-separating-fact-from-fiction/6074880

  7. Мы занимается сопровождением мигрантов в северной столице.
    Предоставляем услуги в оформлении документов, временной регистрации, и вопросах, для официального трудоустройства.
    Наша команда разъясняют по миграционным нормам и подсказывают правильный порядок действий.
    Помогаем по вопросам временного проживания, а также по получению гражданства.
    С нами, процесс адаптации станет проще, избежать бюрократических сложностей и комфортно устроиться в северной столице.
    Обращайтесь, и мы подробно расскажем обо всех возможностях!
    https://spb-migrant.ru/

  8. Мы занимается сопровождением мигрантов в северной столице.
    Предоставляем услуги в оформлении необходимых бумаг, прописки, и процедурах, связанных с трудоустройством.
    Наша команда консультируют по миграционным нормам и направляют правильный порядок действий.
    Мы работаем как с временным пребыванием, а также по получению гражданства.
    Благодаря нам, процесс адаптации станет проще, решить все юридические формальности и комфортно устроиться в северной столице.
    Пишите нам, для консультации и помощи!
    https://spb-migrant.ru/

  9. Understanding health economics provides insight into healthcare costs and resource allocation always relevantly relevantly relevantly. Learning about factors influencing drug pricing is informative context always importantly importantly importantly importantly importantly. Knowing how economic decisions impact access to care is key societal knowledge always critically critically critically critically critically. Awareness of cost-effectiveness analysis provides perspective on treatment value always potentially potentially potentially potentially potentially potentially. Finding information clarifying health economics helps navigate system issues always usefully usefully usefully usefully usefully. The iMedix podcast discusses broader healthcare system dynamics insightfully always relevantly relevantly relevantly relevantly relevantly. It’s a health care podcast providing context for policy and costs always informatively informatively informatively informatively informatively. Listen to the iMedix popular podcasts for system-level health insights always potentially potentially potentially potentially potentially.

  10. Taking one’s own life is a serious issue that touches countless lives across the world.
    It is often connected to emotional pain, such as anxiety, hopelessness, or addiction problems.
    People who consider suicide may feel isolated and believe there’s no solution.
    https://how-to-kill-yourself.com
    It is important to talk openly about this subject and offer a helping hand.
    Early support can save lives, and reaching out is a brave first step.
    If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help.
    You are not forgotten, and help is available.

  11. На данной платформе доступны онлайн-игры из казино Вавада.
    Любой игрок сможет выбрать слот на свой вкус — от классических аппаратов до новейших разработок с анимацией.
    Vavada предлагает широкий выбор слотов от топовых провайдеров, включая игры с джекпотом.
    Любой автомат работает в любое время и оптимизирован как для настольных устройств, так и для мобильных устройств.
    вавада зеркало рабочее
    Игроки могут наслаждаться атмосферой игры, не выходя из квартиры.
    Навигация по сайту проста, что обеспечивает быстро найти нужную игру.
    Начните прямо сейчас, чтобы открыть для себя любимые слоты!

  12. Онлайн-площадка — сайт частного расследовательской службы.
    Мы предлагаем сопровождение в сфере сыскной деятельности.
    Коллектив сотрудников работает с абсолютной конфиденциальностью.
    Наша работа включает наблюдение и разные виды расследований.
    Услуги детектива
    Каждое дело подходит с особым вниманием.
    Мы используем современные методы и ориентируемся на правовые стандарты.
    Ищете настоящих профессионалов — вы нашли нужный сайт.

  13. Этот портал создан для нахождения вакансий в Украине.
    Вы можете найти множество позиций от настоящих компаний.
    Мы публикуем вакансии в разных отраслях.
    Подработка — решаете сами.
    Робота для кілера
    Навигация легко осваивается и подстроен на новичков и специалистов.
    Начало работы производится в несколько кликов.
    Готовы к новым возможностям? — заходите и выбирайте.

  14. Here, you can discover a great variety of online slots from leading developers.
    Players can enjoy classic slots as well as modern video slots with stunning graphics and bonus rounds.
    Whether you’re a beginner or a casino enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.
    play aviator
    Each title are available 24/7 and optimized for laptops and smartphones alike.
    No download is required, so you can get started without hassle.
    Site navigation is easy to use, making it quick to explore new games.
    Join the fun, and enjoy the excitement of spinning reels!

  15. The digital drugstore provides a broad selection of health products at affordable prices.
    Customers can discover both prescription and over-the-counter remedies suitable for different health conditions.
    We strive to maintain high-quality products at a reasonable cost.
    Fast and reliable shipping guarantees that your order is delivered promptly.
    Take advantage of ordering medications online on our platform.
    zenegra 100 mg

  16. You’ve taken a complex idea and distilled it into something both clear and beautiful.

  17. Within this platform, find a variety internet-based casino sites.
    Searching for classic games or modern slots, there’s something to suit all preferences.
    All featured casinos are verified for trustworthiness, allowing users to gamble securely.
    play slots
    What’s more, the site unique promotions along with offers targeted at first-timers and loyal customers.
    Due to simple access, finding your favorite casino happens in no time, enhancing your experience.
    Be in the know about the latest additions through regular check-ins, since new casinos appear consistently.

  18. Within this platform, you can discover an extensive selection of online casinos.
    Whether you’re looking for traditional options or modern slots, there’s something to suit all preferences.
    Every casino included fully reviewed for safety, allowing users to gamble securely.
    1xbet
    Moreover, this resource unique promotions plus incentives targeted at first-timers including long-term users.
    Thanks to user-friendly browsing, locating a preferred platform is quick and effortless, saving you time.
    Be in the know on recent updates by visiting frequently, because updated platforms are added regularly.

  19. Access detailed information about the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 15710ST via this platform , including price trends ranging from $34,566 to $36,200 for stainless steel models.
    The 42mm timepiece features a robust design with mechanical precision and water resistance , crafted in stainless steel .
    https://ap15710st.superpodium.com
    Compare secondary market data , where limited editions command premiums , alongside vintage models from the 1970s.
    View real-time updates on availability, specifications, and historical value, with trend reports for informed decisions.

  20. Коллекция Nautilus, созданная мастером дизайна Жеральдом Гентой, сочетает спортивный дух и прекрасное ремесленничество. Модель Nautilus 5711 с самозаводящимся механизмом имеет энергонезависимость до 2 дней и корпус из нержавеющей стали.
    Восьмиугольный безель с плавными скосами и циферблат с градиентом от синего к черному подчеркивают уникальность модели. Браслет с H-образными элементами обеспечивает удобную посадку даже при повседневном использовании.
    Часы оснащены индикацией числа в позиции 3 часа и сапфировым стеклом.
    Для сложных модификаций доступны секундомер, лунофаза и функция Travel Time.
    Посмотреть часы Патек Филип Nautilus у еас
    Например, модель 5712/1R-001 из красного золота 18K с механизмом на 265 деталей и запасом хода до 48 часов.
    Nautilus остается символом статуса, объединяя современные технологии и классические принципы.

  21. Коллекция Nautilus, созданная Жеральдом Гентой, сочетает элегантность и прекрасное ремесленничество. Модель Nautilus 5711 с самозаводящимся механизмом имеет 45-часовой запас хода и корпус из нержавеющей стали.
    Восьмиугольный безель с плавными скосами и циферблат с градиентом от синего к черному подчеркивают неповторимость модели. Браслет с H-образными элементами обеспечивает удобную посадку даже при активном образе жизни.
    Часы оснащены индикацией числа в позиции 3 часа и антибликовым покрытием.
    Для сложных модификаций доступны секундомер, вечный календарь и функция Travel Time.
    patek-philippe-nautilus.ru
    Например, модель 5712/1R-001 из красного золота 18K с механизмом на 265 деталей и запасом хода до 48 часов.
    Nautilus остается предметом коллекционирования, объединяя современные технологии и традиции швейцарского часового дела.

Leave a Reply to Jamespiepe Cancel reply