Understand before you sign
Explanations of the rates, fees and contracts behind financial products offered in Quebec, written to be read before an appointment, not after.
12 articles · Tax
// Tax
Marginal and Average Tax Rates: Read a Tax Estimate
The average rate divides total tax by income; the marginal rate applies only to the next slice of income.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Tax Refunds: Do Not Confuse Them With Permanent Savings
A tax refund returns amounts already withheld: it is not a permanent saving to spend every year.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Refundable and Non-Refundable Tax Credits
A non-refundable credit is limited by tax payable; a refundable credit is paid even when no tax is owed.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Self-Employment: Set Aside Tax and Contributions
Separate gross revenue from spendable cash and set aside estimated tax and contributions every month.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Capital Gains: Keep Documents to Calculate Cost
Keep the purchase price, acquisition costs, additions to cost and disposition expenses to calculate the taxable gain.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Compare a Financial Product: A Seven-Check Method
Define the need before reviewing offers, then compare each option’s full cost over the same period.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Read a Financial Offer: Rate, Fees, Term and Conditions
Locate the nominal rate, its calculation method and every mandatory or conditional fee before signing an offer.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Verify a Financial Source Before Making a Decision
Identify the author, their expertise and the publication date, then confirm the cited rule is still in force.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Medical Expenses: Organize Receipts Before Filing
Gather receipts in the eligible person’s name and choose the most advantageous twelve-month period.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Moving Expenses: Verify Eligibility and Keep Evidence
Verify the distance and the connection with work, study or business, then keep every expense receipt.
2026-07-21
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Home Office Expenses: Distinguish Employee and Self-Employed Rules
The rules differ for employees and the self-employed: measure the space and time devoted to work.
2026-07-21
// Tax
Notice of Assessment: Verify Amounts and Keep the Record
Compare income, contributions and credits with your return and verify carried-forward room before filing the notice away.
2026-07-21