Group benefits are now under federal scrutiny and could be added to the list of taxes that Canadians pay.
During the regular luncheon meeting of the Wetaskiwin Regional Chamber of Commerce, Dean Chapman gave members an update on the chamber benefits plan. The plan offers services like health benefits and human resources advice for businesses which may not be large enough to acquire those alone.
Chapman stated the federal government is currently looking at taxing group benefits; currently, such benefits are non-taxable.
He noted this issue will affect most business owners and those who are concerned should speak up before Ottawa makes a decision. “Once a tax is put in place, it’s highly unlikely it will ever be repealed,” said Chapman to the members.
Those concerned about the issue should contact Edmonton-Wetaskiwin Member of Parliament Mike Lake (Mike.Lake@parl.gc.ca, 780-495-2149 or #203, 1230-91 Street SW Edmonton, T6X 0P2).