News & Events

Welcome to Atum Financial Services Inc., where we believe that financial empowerment starts with effective budgeting. In today's fast-paced world, managing your money wisely is more crucial than ever. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the art of budgeting, offering insights and tips to help you achieve your financial goals.

Understanding the Basics:

Budgeting is not just about tracking expenses; it's a strategic plan to allocate your financial resources efficiently. Begin by assessing your income, fixed expenses, and variable expenses. At Atum, we emphasize the importance of creating a realistic budget that reflects your lifestyle and financial aspirations.

Income Evaluation: Start by calculating your monthly income, including salaries, bonuses, and any additional income sources. Understanding your cash inflow is the first step in effective budgeting.

Fixed Expenses: Identify and list your fixed expenses, such as rent or mortgage, utilities, insurance, and loan repayments. These are consistent and predictable costs that form the foundation of your budget.

Variable Expenses: Variable expenses, like groceries, entertainment, and dining out, can fluctuate. Track your spending in these areas to gain insight into your habits and make informed decisions about where adjustments can be made.

Creating Your Budget:

Now that you have a clear picture of your financial landscape, it's time to create your budget. At Atum, we recommend the 50/30/20 rule:

50% for Needs: Allocate 50% of your income to essential expenses like housing, utilities, and groceries.
30% for Wants: Dedicate 30% to discretionary spending on non-essential items such as dining out, entertainment, and leisure activities.
20% for Savings: Prioritize your financial future by allocating 20% to savings and debt repayment.

Tips for Successful Budgeting:

Regular Reviews: Periodically review your budget to ensure it aligns with your financial goals. Adjustments may be needed as circumstances change.

Debt Management: Prioritize debt repayment within your budget to achieve financial freedom sooner.
Automate Savings: Set up automatic transfers to your savings account to ensure consistent contributions.

At Atum Financial Services Inc., we're dedicated to empowering you on your financial journey. Our team of experts is here to provide personalized guidance, ensuring your budget is a dynamic tool that evolves with your needs.

Budgeting is the cornerstone of financial stability and success. By partnering with Atum Financial Services Inc., you gain access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the intricacies of budgeting. Start your journey towards financial empowerment today, and let us be your guide to a brighter, more secure financial future.

 #BudgetingWithAtum #FinancialEmpowerment

A Prosperous New Year: Your Financial Roadmap with Atum Financial Services Inc.

As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, Atum Financial Services Inc. is here to guide you on a journey toward financial prosperity in the upcoming year. Let's embark on this exciting adventure together, armed with practical tips and insights to make 2024 your most financially successful year yet!

Reflect on the Past: Take a moment to review your financial achievements and challenges from the past year. What worked well? What could be improved? This reflection will be the foundation for setting realistic and attainable goals for the new year.

Set Clear Financial Goals: Define your financial aspirations for the coming year. Whether it's saving for a major purchase, building an emergency fund, or tackling debt, having clear goals provides direction and motivation.

Create a Realistic Budget: A well-crafted budget is your financial compass. Review your income, expenses, and savings goals to ensure alignment. At Atum, we emphasize the importance of a flexible budget that adapts to life's changes.

Debt Repayment Strategy: Tackle high-interest debts strategically. Consider prioritizing debts with the highest interest rates while maintaining minimum payments on others. This focused approach can lead to significant savings over time.

Review Investments: If you have investments, review their performance and ensure they align with your financial goals. At Atum Financial Services Inc., our experts can help you optimize your investment strategy for the year ahead.

Explore New Income Streams: Diversify your sources of income where possible. Whether through side hustles, investments, or passive income streams, multiple revenue sources can provide stability and growth opportunities.

Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on financial news, market trends, and changes in regulations. Knowledge is a powerful tool in making informed financial decisions.

Insurance Checkup: Review your insurance coverage to ensure it meets your current needs. Life changes may necessitate adjustments to your policies, so it's crucial to have the right coverage in place.

Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your financial victories, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement fosters a healthy financial mindset and motivates you to stay on track.

As we step into the new year, let Atum Financial Services Inc. be your partner in financial success. Our dedicated team is here to provide personalized guidance, expert advice, and the support you need to make 2024 a year of financial prosperity.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year from all of us at Atum Financial Services Inc.! 

The government has announced changes to the CEBA repayment process.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re a small business:

There will now be three CEBA deadlines.
The first one is on January 18th, 2024, which is the deadline to keep the forgivable portion by repaying the full balance.
The second deadline is on March 28, 2024, which is the deadline to keep the forgivable portion if you have an application in process before Jan. 18, 2024, for a bank loan to repay CEBA. 
The third deadline is on December 31, 2026, which is the deadline to repay the full CEBA loan if you lose the forgivable portion.

If you have any questions, please call Atum Financial Services Inc. at 519-893-1116.

Welcome, fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts, to a thrilling journey into the heart of your business's financial landscape! Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of accounting, where numbers aren't just figures on paper, but the pulse of your enterprise's success. Strap in as we uncover the secrets to mastering your finances and steering your business towards unprecedented growth and prosperity.

1. The Accounting Odyssey: Your Business's North Star

Imagine your business as a ship sailing across uncharted waters. What keeps it on course? Accounting! Just as a skilled captain uses navigational tools to chart a path, your business needs accurate financial data to make informed decisions. With expert accounting, you'll know where you're headed, where you've been, and how to overcome storms.

2. Demystifying Financial Statements: The Hidden Treasure Map

Ahoy, adventurers! As you set sail on your accounting expedition, financial statements are your treasure maps. The income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement reveal the riches and challenges within your business. Unlock the code of profitability, liquidity, and solvency. With the right insight, you'll know where to dig deeper and where to invest for maximum returns.

3. Budgeting: Plotting Your Financial Course

Every successful journey needs a meticulously planned route, and your business's financial journey is no exception. Budgeting is your compass, steering you away from turbulent waters and guiding you towards financial stability. Craft a budget that aligns with your goals, allocate resources wisely, and set sail with confidence.

4. Tax Strategies: Navigating the Tax Tsunami

Ahoy, me hearties! Tax season can be a tempestuous sea, but with the right strategies, you can sail through unscathed. Discover deductions, credits, and incentives that can save your ship from unnecessary taxation. A skilled tax professional can be your lighthouse, guiding you towards legal savings while keeping the taxman at bay.

5. Technological Alliances: The Wind in Your Sails

In today's digital era, technology is the wind that propels your business forward. Embrace accounting software, automation tools, and cloud-based solutions to streamline your financial processes. These modern allies will save time, reduce errors, and give you real-time insights to navigate with precision.

6. A Crew You Can Trust: Hiring Financial Experts

No captain sails alone, and no business owner should tackle accounting without a competent crew. Hire skilled accountants and financial advisors who understand the nuances of your industry. They'll be your co-pilots, helping you interpret financial data and chart a course towards sustainable growth.

7. Auditing: Clearing the Waters of Doubt

An audit is like a skilled diver examining the hull of your ship. It's a rigorous process that ensures your financial statements are accurate and trustworthy. While it may seem daunting, a successful audit demonstrates your commitment to transparency and integrity, building trust with stakeholders and investors.

8. Financial Forecasting: Stargazing for Business Owners

Just as sailors study the stars to predict the weather, business owners use financial forecasting to anticipate market trends and plan accordingly. With data-driven insights, you'll be able to adjust your sails to capitalize on opportunities and navigate around potential storms.

Set Sail for Success!

As you embark on this exhilarating journey into the world of accounting, remember that every wave represents a chance for growth, every challenge a chance to learn. Expert accounting is the compass that will guide you through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, allowing you to steer your business towards prosperity with confidence. So, hoist your sails, gather your crew, and set forth on a voyage towards financial success that will leave your competitors in your wake. Bon voyage!

Are you ready to embark on a journey that will transform the way you see your business's financial future? Hold onto your entrepreneurial hats because our accounting firm is not your average number-crunching hub. Get ready to experience the excitement, innovation, and unparalleled expertise that await you when you partner with us.

Beyond Numbers: Where Innovation and Financial Strategy Collide

At Atum Financial Services Inc. we've redefined what accounting means for businesses. We don't just see spreadsheets; we see the canvas upon which your dreams are painted. Our team of financial virtuosos doesn't settle for the ordinary—we thrive on creating extraordinary strategies that fuel your growth and success.

Fueling Growth through Tailored Solutions

Every business is a unique entity, and we treat it as such. Our excitement stems from crafting customized financial solutions that align with your goals, industry nuances, and aspirations. Whether you're a startup, a growing enterprise, or an established powerhouse, we've got the tools and expertise to tailor a strategy that fits you like a glove.

Meet Your New Partners in Success

Picture us as the co-pilots of your business journey, equipped with not just calculators, but also vision and innovation. Our team lives and breathes excitement for turning financial data into actionable insights. We're not just bean counters; we're business enthusiasts who understand that your success is our success.

Breaking Barriers with Technology

Gone are the days of sifting through stacks of paperwork and manual calculations. At Atum Financial Services Inc, we're at the forefront of financial technology, leveraging cutting-edge tools to streamline processes, enhance accuracy, and provide real-time insights. Say hello to efficiency and wave goodbye to the mundane.

From Surviving to Thriving: Your Business Evolution Starts Here

It's not just about balancing the books; it's about transforming your business's trajectory. Our excitement comes from watching businesses like yours evolve from surviving to thriving. With our strategic guidance, you'll not only weather financial storms but also harness them to propel your business to new heights.

A Partnership Beyond Profit and Loss

When you join forces with Atum Financial Services Inc, you're not just a client; you're a collaborator in a journey of growth and innovation. Our excitement for your success is genuine, and we invest in your goals like they're our own. We're not satisfied until your business is achieving the greatness it deserves.

Conclusion: Your Future, Our Passion

As you consider your next move in the business world, remember this: Atum Financial Services Inc. isn't just an accounting firm—it's a gateway to financial transformation, innovation, and unbridled success. Join us in an exciting partnership that will redefine the way you view accounting. Your business's future is full of promise, and we're here to help you seize it with unwavering excitement and passion. Contact us today, and let's embark on this thrilling journey together!

Atum Family!
We are proud and honoured to announce that Atum Financial Services Inc. has been nominated for six different categories, which include the following:
·     Best Accounting
·     Best Business Consulting Services
·     Best Bookkeeping Services
·     Best Income Tax Preparation
·     Best Accountant – Paul Brosnan, RPA
·     Best Accountant – Linh Or, RPA
We would greatly appreciate all your support in the voting stage, which opens today!
You can cast your vote by going to the link, https://lnkd.in/gfC2z4Tu and select the categories Atum is nominated for!
We thank all of you for your dedicated and continuous support in making Atum the business we are today!

Tax Reminder Post

A friendly reminder that tax deadline is April 30th, 2023, which means now is the time to get all your paperwork, receipts, and information sorted and ready.

Below is information to collect and organize:

General Items:

• Copy of any foreign tax return filed (U.S. citizens must file U.S. returns)
• 2021 Notice of Assessment & other years’ reassessments
• Your personal status such as dates of marriage, separation, divorce or widowed, births & deaths.
• Names & SIN of spouse & dependents
• Current contact information
• Note consenting to provide your income tax information to Elections Canada
• Installment payments made if any.
• Details of foreign property holdings (if any*) (T1135**)
• Contact details & consent to discuss your investments with any advisors.
• Details of lawsuits settled in 2021.
• Support & settlement details resulting from matrimonial changes if any.
• TFSA statements, (limit increased to $6000)
• # Of days worked from home, Work from home expenses/Declaration of conditions of employment form (T2200s, T2200)
• Disability tax credit claim form completed by doctor (T2201)
• Direct deposit information

Income Details:

• Employment income (T4)
• Pension income (T4A, T4A(P), T4RIF, T4RSP)
• Old age security (T4OAS)
• CERB/CRB Income (T4A)
• Investment income (T5)
• Income from trusts such as mutual fund investments (T3)
• Income from employment insurance (T4E)
• Income from partnerships (T5013)
• Workers’ compensation/social assistance payments (T5007)
• Details of the sale of securities such as stocks & bonds (eg. realized gain/loss report from your broker), possible T5008 slips
• U.S. social security & any other foreign pensions
• Details of real estate sales & purchases
• Income from foreign investments
• Child/Spousal support payments received.
• T4As for any miscellaneous income received during the year.
• T4PS (profit sharing) Deductions – Employees
• Business, Farm, Fishing & Other income (Tips, casual income)

Deductions – General:

• Digital news subscriptions (NEW!)
• RRSP contributions (Contribution deadline March 1st, 2022
• Medical, dental, prescription drugs, nursing home expenses, fertility costs, trained animal aids for impairments (pharmacies will print your tax receipts for each family member)
• Home Renovations for Seniors/Disabilities
• Payments to a private health insurance plan
• Charitable donations
• Tuition fees/education amount/Exams fees for professional certification (T2202A for Canadian & TL11 for foreign universities) for yourself or transferred from a dependent, signed by student.
• Interest paid on student loans.
• Professional dues & insurance, union dues
• Eligible supplies expenses & certificate for Teacher/Educators
• Interest on loans to purchase investments.
• Professional consultant fees
• Legal fees paid to establish spousal support or to enforce a pre-existing agreement.
• Legal fees paid to recover wages from your employer.
• Details of people you support & their medical status.
• Childcare/day care receipts (if for camp, list dates attended)
• Non-reimbursed moving expenses if you moved 40 km or closer to a new workspace location.
• Property taxes or residential rent paid (if joint couples’ income under $45K)
• Political contributions receipts
• Child/Spousal support payments paid.
• Adoption expenses
• Expenses not reimbursed by your employer.
• If you are a commissioned salesperson, details supporting advertising expenses, promotion, meals & entertainment
• TL2 meals & lodging for transportation employees
• Trades people & apprentice tool purchases, if eligible
• Volunteer Firefighters Certificate

Deductions – Motor Vehicles, IF ELIGIBLE*

• Total kilometers driven & kilometers driven just for work.
• Details of total expenses
• New vehicle, purchase invoice/agreement

Unincorporated Businesses/Sole Proprietors:

• Software backup of bookkeeping records, if computerized (include password)
• Manual bookkeeping records
• Total sales revenue and receipts for the year if books not kept.
• Total expenses listed by category for the year or receipts if books not kept.
• Capital assets acquired (e.g., computers & peripherals, furniture & equipment)
• Home office expenses, rent.
• Partners’ names, addresses, SINs & per cent interest

Rental Properties

• Address & number of units
• Rental income by unit
• Rental expenses by unit & by category of expense
• Partners’ names, addresses, SINs & percent of ownership
• Details of any capital additions over $500, including furnishings & appliances

For Tax Professionals Call Atum Financial Services at 519-893-1116

Are you looking to take your mind off work and have a staycation? Now is the time to do so! The Ontario Staycation Tax Credit is a temporary personal income tax credit that is eligible for Ontario residents who have used accommodation expenses for vacations from January 1st, 2022 to December 31st, 2022.

What can Ontario residents get if they apply for this tax credit?

 - Ontario residents can claim 20% of their accommodation expenses used this year. The maximum for an individual is $1,000, $2,000 for a family which translates to $200 for an individual and $400 for a family.

Below is a list of eligible expenses:

• Hotel
• Motel
• Cottage
• Campground
• Resort
• Lodge
• Bed and Breakfast
• Vacation Rental Property

Below is a list of ineligible expenses:

• travel expenses that are not for short-term accommodation or camping accommodation, such as expenses for car rentals, fuel, flights, groceries, parking, or prices of admission into local attractions and places of interest
• accommodation expenses reimbursed to you, your spouse or common-law partner, or your eligible child, by any person, including by a friend or an employer
• expenses that are incurred for school or educational purposes, or for a work, employment or business purpose, or that can be claimed for a medical expense tax credit

You must keep your detailed receipts for any eligible expenses you claim for the credit. Those receipts must include:

• the location of the accommodation
• the amount that can reasonably be considered to be for the accommodation portion of a stay
• the amount of any GST/HST paid
• the date of the stay
• the name of the payor

Keep your Ontario accommodation receipts for 2022! You can claim this credit on your 2022 Personal Income Tax & Benefit Return.

Tax Season Is Here!

Welcome to another tax season! Please click on the link below for CRA updates on the 2021 tax season. 

CRA 2021 Tax Updates

CEBA Loan Extension

The federal government has extended the deadline for the repayment of the Canada Emergency Business Account.

The interest-free loan was set to expire on December 31st of this year has now been extended until December 31st, 2023.

Small businesses and not-for-profits could apply for the CEBA program from April 9th, 2020, to June 30th, 2021, to get an interest-free loan of up to $60,000.

The government has also announced that if the balance on the loan is paid on or before December 31st, 2023, that it would result in loan forgiveness of up to $20,000 or 33%. Also announced was the interest rate of 5% per year for all outstanding loan balances. The outstanding loans would become two-year loans starting on January 1st, 2024 and ending on December 31st, 2025.

Those who qualified for partial forgiveness for CEBA-equivalent lending through the recovery fund and regional relief have also been extended until December 31st, 2023.

The CEBA loan has helped over 898,000 businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic with over $49 billion spent.