Insights

Tranquility Blog

Practical Canadian tax reading, without the jargon.

Ray Loucks seated on the speakers' panel at the Canadian Tax Foundation's 2026 British Columbia Tax Conference, between co-author Jessica Fabbro and fellow speaker Davis Chiu, with the conference backdrop behind them

LatestSeptember 28, 20267 min read

When a Company’s Value Falls After an Estate Freeze: Is a Refreeze the Answer?

A refreeze can restore future growth opportunities after a company’s value falls, but valuation, corporate attribution and preferred-share tax risks should be reviewed first.Read the article

A hand chalking the words “estate planning” on a blackboard, ringed by trust, property disposition, charity, succession, life insurance, and living will

July 23, 202612 min read

What Happens to Your RRSP or RRIF When You Die?

Your RRSP and RRIF at death can trigger a large, immediate tax bill for your estate. This article explains the rules, key rollover options, and practical planning steps to protect your family.

Someone working at a laptop on a white desk beside a notebook, pen, glasses, and a cup of coffee

June 30, 20266 min read

Unreported Income or Foreign Assets? Canada’s New Voluntary Disclosures Program

Canada’s updated Voluntary Disclosures Program offers better penalty and interest relief for Canadians with unreported income or missed filings. Learn what changed in 2025.

Two farmers in straw hats talking over a tablet in a young cornfield under a clear sky

May 25, 20266 min read

The Estate Planning Gap: What BC Families Risk by Waiting

Discover why half of Canadians lack estate plans and the costly mistakes that put BC families at risk. Learn how to close the estate planning gap today.

A grandfather guiding a chisel while two granddaughters watch him carve at a workshop bench

March 3, 20267 min read

The Hidden 21‑Year Deadline Inside Your Family Trust — And How to Defuse It

Learn how Canada’s 21‑year deemed disposition rule affects family trusts, business owners, and high‑net‑worth families. Understand key risks, timing, and high‑level planning options to protect your estate.

January 20, 20265 min read

How to Protect Your Estate When Your Children Live Abroad: 3 Critical Tax Surprises

Your children abroad face hidden tax surprises on inherited Canadian assets. Learn the three critical estate planning issues every Canadian parent should know.

Three generations of a family laughing together while carrying crates of tomatoes through a greenhouse

January 8, 20265 min read

Pre-Succession Tax Housekeeping: A Guide for Business Owners

A guide for Canadian business owners on pre-succession tax planning. Learn how to prepare for a sale, qualify for the LCGE, and navigate intergenerational transfers.

Five colleagues cheering with their arms raised as they walk down a glass-walled office corridor

December 9, 20256 min read

Selling to an Employee Ownership Trust: What Changed in 2026

The $10 million capital gains exemption on a sale to an employee ownership trust was due to expire at the end of 2026. It is now permanent. What that means for a Canadian owner weighing an EOT against a family transfer or an outside sale.

Two people in silhouette facing each other in argument, both gripping a model house between them

November 18, 20254 min read

Navigating Divorce as a Private Company Owner: Key Tax Considerations

When a private company owner goes through a separation or divorce, the tax implications can be significant and complex. We review the key tax considerations.

Two people leaning over a table reading a printed document together, one holding a pen

October 24, 20253 min read

3 Key Tax Considerations When Transitioning a Family Business

Transitioning a family business is one of the most meaningful and complex financial events in a founder’s lifetime. Beyond the emotional aspect, a poorly structured transfer can lead to significant and unexpected tax consequences.