Blog and Articles

British Columbia's real estate market is known for its dynamic nature, attracting both domestic and international investors. To regulate this market and generate revenue, the province imposes the Property Transfer Tax (PTT) on property transactions. This article delves into the intricacies of the PTT, its implications for foreign entities/nationals, and examines a recent pivotal case: [...]

Cross-border retirement planning has never been more relevant. In 2025, many Canadians living in the U.S. and Americans living in Canada face complex questions around Social Security, CPP, and OAS benefits. Our updated article explores how longstanding agreements like the totalization agreement (1984–2025) and the U.S.-Canada tax treaty continue to shape eligibility and taxation rules—while addressing key developments such as the 85% inclusion rate, new e-filing systems, and the growing importance of residency status. Whether you’re planning to retire soon or already drawing benefits, understanding where and how your income is taxed is crucial.

The US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) recently announced that it discovered massive fraud against the Social Security retirement program, citing 130 year-olds collecting Social Security payments as an example. Against that backdrop, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has changed how people must prove their identity when 1) claiming benefits for the first time and [...]

Imagine you’re a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder living in Canada, and you’ve just received the dreaded notice: your U.S.-based brokerage or custodian has decided they can no longer hold your taxable investment account or IRA because you live abroad. They’re giving you 60 days to transfer it elsewhere, or they will liquidate everything [...]

It is the end of an era. Pursuant to a January 20 presidential executive order, the US is changing the rules for foreign nationals, including some Canadian snowbirds, who enter the US as visitors without visas. Who must register: Beginning April 11, the following visitors without visas (including infants) who are not otherwise exempt must [...]

In the article, Rossignoli offers expert commentary on the financial, tax, and immigration challenges Canadian companies face when considering relocating operations to the U.S.

Kris Rossignoli, Senior Private Wealth Manager at Cardinal Point Wealth Management, is a leading voice in cross-border financial planning, guiding clients through rising uncertainty as the U.S. trade war intensifies. Featured in The Globe and Mail article “Five questions cross-border experts are facing as trade war escalates,” Rossignoli offers expert insights into the growing concerns of his clients with ties across the U.S.-Canada border.

Focus Financial Partners Inc., an interdependent partnership of wealth management, business management, and related financial services firms, has announced that Focus network firm Dorchester Wealth Management, headquartered in Montreal, QC, has formally joined Toronto, ON-based Cardinal Point Capital Management ULC, a part of Cardinal Point, Focus Partners Canada, in a transaction that was completed on [...]

Relocating from the U.S. to Canada requires careful financial, tax, and logistical planning to avoid unexpected costs and compliance issues. This blog highlights key considerations, including securing the right immigration status, navigating customs regulations, and optimizing cross-border banking and investments. Learn how to handle tax residency, leverage foreign tax credits, and manage U.S.-based retirement accounts effectively. Explore real estate strategies, healthcare planning, and estate law differences to safeguard your assets. From establishing a Canadian credit history to ensuring proper insurance coverage, this checklist provides essential steps for a seamless transition. Planning ahead can minimize tax burdens and maximize financial efficiency.

Navigating the Canadian tax landscape is much simpler when you understand the difference between deductions (which reduce taxable income) and credits (which lower tax owed). If you’re a Canadian resident or a US citizen living in Canada, consider how RRSP or FHSA contributions can reduce your taxable income, while non-refundable and refundable tax credits can yield significant savings. Deductions for childcare, moving expenses, carrying charges, and employment costs also play a key role. For instance, by deducting daycare fees or home office expenses, you could lower your overall tax burden and potentially boost your refund. Meanwhile, non-refundable credits such as the Basic Personal Amount or Age Amount help shrink what you owe, and refundable credits like the CWB or GST/HST credit may generate a direct payment. Stay informed of annual limits, income thresholds, and eligibility requirements. For tailored guidance, consult a Cardinal Point financial advisor.

Relocating from Canada to the U.S. requires careful planning and specialized cross-border expertise to ensure that your finances and taxes remain optimized. Understanding your immigration pathway is just the first step. By severing tax residency in Canada, you can avoid ongoing obligations and potential departure tax implications, while preparing for new U.S. tax rules and reporting requirements. Coordinating cross-border investments, such as RRSPs and TFSAs, is also vital to minimize unnecessary taxation and streamline compliance. Estate planning should be updated to reflect U.S. regulations, including potential exposure to estate taxes. Finally, don’t overlook the importance of obtaining appropriate health insurance coverage, given the differences in healthcare systems. A comprehensive strategy, guided by a cross-border financial advisor, ensures that every piece—from retirement accounts to currency management—is handled seamlessly.

Moving to Canada from the United States can be an exciting endeavor, but it also involves complex tax considerations. In this comprehensive video, Karen Rogers Sim, Tax Manager at Cardinal Point Wealth Management, shares expert insights on how the Canadian and U.S. tax systems differ, what it means to be taxed in both countries, and [...]

Relocating from the U.S. to Canada is about more than a change of scenery—it’s a strategic financial move that demands expert guidance. From navigating dual tax obligations to optimizing investment strategies, every aspect of your cross-border journey must be planned to avoid tax burdens and compliance issues. Determining tax residency status is crucial, as Canada taxes based on residency while the U.S. continues to tax its citizens worldwide. Proper application of the Canada-U.S. tax treaty can mitigate double taxation, while proactive pre-immigration planning—such as disposing of certain assets or converting retirement accounts—can yield tax advantages. When it comes to cross-border investments, partnering with an advisor licensed in both Canada and the U.S. is essential to align cost bases, manage currency risks, and meet regulatory requirements. Lastly, don’t overlook estate planning and compliance obligations. Working with Cardinal Point cross-border wealth advisors can help secure your financial future in Canada and beyond.

As you consider moving from Canada to the U.S. or vice versa, the purchase of a new residence is an integral part of the move.  In some cases, you might consider using proceeds from the sale of your previous residence.  But when moving from Canada to the U.S., foreign exchange rate concerns may be a [...]

For high-income earners and diligent savers, maximizing tax-advantaged retirement savings is an essential strategy. Two powerful tools in the 2025 retirement planning arsenal are after-tax 401(k) contributions with rollovers to a Roth 401(k) and backdoor Roth IRA contributions. These strategies can significantly boost your retirement savings and help you grow your nest egg tax-free. Here’s [...]

NEW YORK – January 6, 2025 – Focus Financial Partners Inc., a leading partnership of wealth management, business management, and related financial services firms, has announced that Cardinal Point Capital Management, ULC has become its latest hub firm as part of its evolved strategy, reflecting the importance it places on Canada as a key growth market. Founded [...]

Millions of retirees are set to see a boost in their Social Security benefits as President Biden prepares to sign a new law eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). This landmark legislation particularly impacts cross-border workers—those who split their careers between the United States and Canada, contributing to both Social [...]

There you are… A Canadian resident soaking up the Florida sun. Ten days of well-deserved rest, then it’s back to the office grind in Toronto. With total disregard for your right to some peace, that office laptop you brought interrupts and starts nagging you to check your email. With a sigh of resignation, you give [...]