- In 2023, the average Canadian household spent 43% of its income on taxes.
- Taxes now exceed spending on housing, food, and clothing combined.
- Financial planners advise maximizing tax credits and small savings strategies.
A recent study by the Fraser Institute has brought to light the considerable tax burden on Canadian households. In 2023, the average family spent 43% of their income on taxes, a figure that encompasses income, payroll, sales, fuel, and property taxes.
The study also traces the historical growth of the tax burden. In 2000, households spent about $25,259 on taxes from an average income of $54,488. In comparison, back in 1961, families paid $1,675 in taxes from an income of $5,000.
The Growing Tax Burden on Canadian Families: A Closer Look
The Fraser Institute’s study has highlighted the growing financial strain on Canadian households due to taxes. In 2023, families spent 43% of their income on taxes, which include not only income taxes but also payroll, sales, fuel, and property taxes. This substantial expenditure is more than what is spent on essential needs like housing, food, and clothing combined, revealing the hidden burden many Canadians face.
Historical data shows a stark increase in the tax burden over the decades. In 2000, the average household spent $25,259 on taxes from an income of $54,488. This contrasts sharply with 1961, where $1,675 was spent on taxes out of a $5,000 income. Such an increase in tax expenditure has significantly outpaced the rise in housing and food costs, contributing to the current affordability crisis in Canada.
Jay Goldberg from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation argues that reducing taxes at all levels of government is crucial to alleviating the financial pressure on families. With 50% of Canadians reportedly $200 away from financial distress, the need for tax relief is more urgent than ever. Financial planner Wendy Brookhouse suggests that individuals can also take steps to manage their finances better by maximizing tax credits and deductions and prioritizing small savings strategies, such as contributing to an RRSP.
Apart from taxes, Canadian households also face significant expenses in other areas. On average, families spend $23,317 on expenditures like communications, child-care, pet expenses, transportation, health care, recreation, education, and tobacco and alcoholic beverages. These costs further strain household budgets, underscoring the need for comprehensive financial planning and prudent spending.
Addressing the high tax burden on Canadian households requires a multifaceted approach involving government action on tax reductions and individual financial strategies. By maximizing tax credits and making thoughtful spending decisions, families can better manage their finances amidst rising costs.
“It was so surprising to me the results of that study because so many of those taxes were hidden,” said financial planner and CEO of Black Star Wealth Wendy Brookhouse.
