General income, benefits, and interest income – 100% taxable

The vast majority of income will fall under this category. Here are some common types of taxable income you may have received:

Employment income (sometimes referred to as T4 income, due to being reported on a T4 slip) – This is income from your employer.

Self-employment income – Pretty self-explanatory. If anyone starts their own business or works on commissions and contracts, this income is 100% taxable. (Note: There is an added benefit of self-employed people being able to write off business expenses, but that’s for another time)

Interest income – Interest you earn from your savings account.

Government benefits – Lastly, if you receive any benefits from the government, such as Canada pension plan or disability payments, it is also 100% taxable.

Dividend income – 100% taxable but with a catch

If you are the owner of a company or have shares in any Canadian company you may have received dividend income. The accounting here is a bit trickier, as even though the income itself is 100% taxable, receiving dividends from Canadian companies entitles you to tax credits. Long story short, the end result is that taking income in the form of dividends ends up saving you tax dollars when you compare it to simply salary income.

Capital gains income – 50% taxable

Capital gains are one of the best ways to earn your income, as only half of it will be taxed! It come in any time there is a sale or transfer of capital property. Here are some common income sources which fall under capital gains:

Real Estate – When you sell any real estate, capital gains will be triggered. If an apartment went up $100,000 in value, you would have $100,000 in capital gains, of which 50%, or $50,000 would be taxable. (Note: One benefit is that if you sell your principle residence, it’s actually exempt from capital gains!)

Stocks – When you sell off any stocks, it will result in a capital gain (or capital loss if you made a poor choice)

Mutual Funds – Many people may have mutual funds, perhaps at the bank or another financial institution. This is also considered capital property.

This is of course, a very simple break down of the different types of income and how they are taxed. Ultimately, it’s always best to go to a professional for any advice, especially when it comes to your taxes. A tax professional who knows their stuff will be able to help you reduce your tax obligation and maximize your tax return!