2025 Corporate Tax Planning Checklist By Bhundhoo Tax Professional Corporation – Led by CPA Amit Bhundhoo
Use this checklist to stay ahead of your corporate tax obligations and make proactive decisions that optimize your financial outcomes.
Quarterly Tax Planning
- Review year-to-date financials (Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet)
- Estimate corporate tax liability based on income to date
- Adjust installment payments if income changes significantly
- Identify opportunities to defer income or accelerate expenses
- Review HST/GST obligations ensure timely filings
Deductions & Credits
- Confirm all eligible business expenses are captured (home office, travel, software, meals)
- Maximize Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) claims
- Track SR&ED (Scientific Research & Experimental Development) credits if applicable
- Capture apprenticeship/job training credits (if hiring/training staff)
- Record any charitable donations with official receipts
Payroll & Compensation
- Review salary vs. dividend mix — revisit owner remuneration strategy
- Confirm T4 and T5 slips are being tracked properly
- Ensure proper CPP/EI withholdings for all employees (including family members)
- Set up Registered Pension Plan (RPP) or RRSP matching if applicable
Entity Structure & Strategy
- Revisit your corporate structure (OpCo/HoldCo setup)
- Consider if a Family Trust or second corporation can enhance tax deferral or income splitting.
- Review shareholder loans and ensure compliance
- Analyze whether restructuring could improve liability protection or tax efficiency.
Documentation & Record keeping
- Keep all business receipts (digitally or physically)
- Reconcile bank and credit card statements monthly
- Maintain a vehicle mileage log if claiming auto expenses
- Separate personal and business expenses to avoid red flags
- Ensure clean, up-to-date books for year-end T2 filing
Year-End Planning Plan
- Make final large purchases (equipment, software) before December 31st
- Declare bonuses or dividends ahead of year-end if needed
- Project net income and tax due for better cash flow planning
- Review any upcoming changes to CRA rules for 2025
Bonus Tip: Maximize Year-End Deductions
As an owner-manager, you may benefit from prepaying eligible recurring business expenses such as insurance premiums, rent, or software subscriptions before December 31st. Doing so can reduce your current year’s taxable income and help manage your corporate tax liability more effectively.
Plan Ahead, Save More
Ensure your corporation is positioned for tax efficiency with a tailored strategy built around your goals.
🔹 Book your tax planning session with CPA Amit Bhundhoo before the year-end rush.
📞 519-953-5844