tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46027289455438566792024-02-08T05:13:16.885-05:00Nayar Law BlogThis blog is not intended to be legal advice but contains general information. Please consult a lawyer or other professional to determine how the information in this blog might apply to you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03232182615727135300noreply@blogger.comBlogger6125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4602728945543856679.post-39894316493825301982014-11-07T12:18:00.003-05:002014-11-30T15:16:30.055-05:00REAL ESTATE - WHAT TO ASK AND EXPECT FROM YOUR LAWYER
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">When buying or
selling your home, it’s a good idea to get your lawyer involved as early as
possible. You’ll probably find yourself asking “Who should officially own the
property?” or “What kind of mortgage should you get?” It’s important to know
all the legal issues involved in buying your home. It’s also important that all
these issues are properly handled.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Although real
estate transactions can be fairly complex, I've tried to simplify the process
to three main steps. The first, of course, is for you (as the client) to sell
your home, buy a home, or both. There are many things to consider when you buy
a home, which I've addressed in my previous blog, so please have a read.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">After you've
bought/sold a property, the agreement is known as the "Agreement of
Purchase and Sale". This is a legally binding contract! It lists all the
important information about the relevant property, including price and any
conditions.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Third, your
lawyer will perform relevant searches and other administrative matters, such
as: Title-related matters, including insurance and deed registration; closing
funds and closing adjustments; tax issues; and mortgages,
including transfers, discharges, and registrations.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Whether buying
or selling, you will need to meet with your lawyer at closing. If you are
buying, you should get your keys. If you are selling, you may want to ask for a
reporting letter from your lawyer.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">GENERAL
MATTERS</span></u></b><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Some basic
information you may want to discuss with your lawyer (if he or she does not
provide it) include:</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">The
names of the lawyer responsible for your matter and anyone else working on the
file, along with their functions and confirmation that the lawyer will
supervise all non-lawyers;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Your
marital status and residency;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Joint
retainer issues (if applicable);</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Differences
between 'joint tenancy' and 'tenancy-in-common';</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Methods
of assuring Title (and the client's selection);</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Closing
adjustments (confirm a detailed review before closing to ensure you're only
paying your share of taxes/utility/fuel, and other pre-paid costs);</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Property
insurance as a requirement;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Proposed
mortgage financing;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Surveys
(their importance and if one exists);</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">(Condo)
Extent of review of the Status Certificate;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">(NEW
home) Tarion inspection, HST, New Home Rebate;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Instructions
about arranging utility and other service accounts;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Fees
and disbursements estimate, and land transfer tax;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Required
closing funds (certified cheque/bank draft); and,</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.3pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">How
and when keys will be available.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">THE
AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE (APS)</span></u></b><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Most
agreements are made using the OREA (<i>Ontario Real Estate Association</i>) standard
form with the assistance of real estate agents. Don't forget that an offer to
purchase is a legally binding contract. Once accepted, it is the <b>binding </b>contract
that sets out the legal rights and obligations of the buyer and seller.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">An unfortunate
yet common misperception is that many believe all Agreements are, in fact,
standard. However, each real estate transaction is unique so both parties</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">An unfortunate
yet common misperception is that many believe all Agreements are, in fact,
standard. However, each real estate transaction is unique so both parties
should seek legal advice <i>prior</i> to entering into a binding
Agreement. That being said, most people do not consult a lawyer before signing
an APS. If you do consult one before signing, you can discuss the points listed
above as well as: your intended or future use of the property, survey issues,
financing, due diligence, relevant searches, and deadlines.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">TITLE
AND OTHER MATTERS</span></u></b><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">As part of
title-related duties and responsibilities, a lawyer usually will check that the
seller has a right to sell the property, and no one else has a claim to it or a
lien on it. He or she will also consider survey-related issues such as
encroachments. The local municipality and utilities are also contacted to
ensure no liens against the property because of unpaid bills. If the home is
being rented, note that tenants may have rights affecting your ownership.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">If there are
problems that could affect title to your property, your lawyer could take steps
to fix the matter (often working with the vendor’s lawyer). If it cannot be
corrected, your lawyer will explain to you the risks of taking title without
resolving the problem.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">There are three
main approaches to assure good title. It will be up to you and your lawyer to
decide which is most appropriate in your situation. No matter which option you
choose, your lawyer will conduct searches & inquiries to find out if there
are any title-related problems with the home you plan to buy.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.5pt;">·</span><span new="" roman="" serif="" style="font-family: ""; font-size: 7pt;" times="">
</span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Option 1: Lawyer’s Opinion on Title – A lawyer
will provide you with a Letter of Opinion that states the lawyer’s view of
whether or not you have good and marketable title to your property. However, if
a problem is identified after closing, seeking compensation may be difficult;</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.5pt;">·</span><span new="" roman="" serif="" style="font-family: ""; font-size: 7pt;" times="">
</span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Option 2: Title Insurance – An insurance policy
helps to protect your investment in your property if there is a problem with
title. It also protects you against the loss you suffer because of many
title-related problems. Most title policies also cover your legal costs if your
title is challenged;</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.5pt;">·</span><span new="" roman="" serif="" style="font-family: ""; font-size: 7pt;" times="">
</span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Option 3: TitlePLUS – This option includes both
an insurance policy and an 'e-process' that collects data from lawyers who
apply for a TitlePLUS policy as they go through the steps in a residential real
estate transaction. The policy provides protection for <b>both</b> the <i>title-related
aspects of buying a home</i> <b>and</b> the <i>legal
services provided by your lawyer</i>. It also automatically provides you and
the lender with coverage.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">In closing,
seeing a lawyer before you sign that offer can help avoid difficulties later on
and ensure your best interests are protected. For example, the inclusion of
escape clauses; a request for warranty of conformation to all by-laws, zoning
regulations, etc.; exact listing of accessories expected to buy with home, and
so on. As you can see, there are many details and issues to address - both
great and small. If you take them one step at a time, the task won't seem so
daunting. And remember: your lawyer is always there to help!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03232182615727135300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4602728945543856679.post-57342915468391840182014-09-24T15:29:00.001-04:002014-09-24T15:29:35.316-04:00REAL ESTATE - TAX AND HST CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING A NEW HOME<div class="MsoNormal">
Buying and/or selling a home can be exciting and scary at the same
time. Some feel nervous or anxious during the process, while others may feel
more motivated or eager. No matter what category you fall in, there are certain
steps and tips you can follow to make the entire transaction as safe, smooth,
and profitable as possible. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A house or condominium is usually the most expensive purchase you will
have to make in your life. It’s also usually the most valuable investment you’ll
make! There are many important areas of a residential real estate transaction
to discuss so I've endeavoured to create a series of blogs on Real
Estate topics. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This blog will deal with everyone’s favourite topic – ‘Tax
Issues’, such as municipal and property taxes
and the Land Transfer Tax – while
future blogs will include ‘Mortgage Issues’, ‘What to Ask and Expect from Your
Lawyer’, ‘Title Insurance’, and ‘the Purchase & Sale Agreement’.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before deciding what house to buy, you have to first decide <i>where</i> you’re going to live. As an
example, I've decided to look at the west side of the GTA, including Brampton,
Mississauga, Oakville, Milton, and Toronto. You may prefer to buy a new home,
or you may wish to buy a home in an established neighbourhood. Whatever your
choice, taxes are inescapable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Property taxes are usually one of the larger annual costs
associated with home ownership. Brampton seems to have a reputation as having a
high tax rate compared with its neighbours while Milton and Oakville have long
been heralded for their low rates. Using an assessed value of $500,000.00 I
have compiled a comparison sample of tax rates for 5 local cities and towns,
below. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><u>2014 Tax Statistics (figures taken from each
city’s official website)<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 621px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 73.5pt;" valign="top" width="98">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Municipality<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 89.65pt;" valign="top" width="120">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Region Tax Rate<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 75.75pt;" valign="top" width="101">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>City Tax Rate<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 61.85pt;" valign="top" width="82">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Education<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 81.8pt;" valign="top" width="109">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Total Tax Rate<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 83.55pt;" valign="top" width="111">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2014 Taxes for
$500,000 home<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 73.5pt;" valign="top" width="98">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brampton<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 89.65pt;" valign="top" width="120">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.430992%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 75.75pt;" valign="top" width="101">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.492340%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 61.85pt;" valign="top" width="82">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
0.203%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 81.8pt;" valign="top" width="109">
<div class="MsoNormal">
1.126332%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 83.55pt;" valign="top" width="111">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
$5631.66<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 73.5pt;" valign="top" width="98">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mississauga<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 89.65pt;" valign="top" width="120">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.430992%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 75.75pt;" valign="top" width="101">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.274378%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 61.85pt;" valign="top" width="82">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
0.203%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 81.8pt;" valign="top" width="109">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.908370%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 83.55pt;" valign="top" width="111">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
$4541.85<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 73.5pt;" valign="top" width="98">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Oakville<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 89.65pt;" valign="top" width="120">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.329790%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 75.75pt;" valign="top" width="101">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.341685%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 61.85pt;" valign="top" width="82">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
0.203%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 81.8pt;" valign="top" width="109">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.874475%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 83.55pt;" valign="top" width="111">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
$4372.38<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 73.5pt;" valign="top" width="98">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Milton<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 89.65pt;" valign="top" width="120">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.329790%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 75.75pt;" valign="top" width="101">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.244771%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 61.85pt;" valign="top" width="82">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
0.203%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 81.8pt;" valign="top" width="109">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.777561% <o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 83.55pt;" valign="top" width="111">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
$3887.81<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 73.5pt;" valign="top" width="98">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Toronto<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td colspan="2" style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 165.4pt;" valign="top" width="221">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
0.520085%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 61.85pt;" valign="top" width="82">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
0.203%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 81.8pt;" valign="top" width="109">
<div class="MsoNormal">
0.7230085%<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 83.55pt;" valign="top" width="111">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
$3615.04<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Based on the above figures, Brampton clearly has the highest
taxes of the five municipalities: nearly $1100 more than second-place Mississauga.
Oakville taxes are about $170 less than Mississauga, while Milton taxes are
$1750 less than Brampton’s. Surprisingly, Toronto has the lowest of the five –
almost $280 less than Milton and over $2000 less than Brampton. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Property and municipal taxes are not the only consideration
in selecting where to live, however. You also have to take into account the
city services your tax dollars (ideally) fund, including community centres and
libraries, infrastructure and other such expenditures. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
Whenever you purchase a property
in Ontario, the Provincial Land Transfer Tax (LTT) is applied. Toronto charges
a separate and additional Municipal LTT to properties purchased in the City. The
Provincial LTT is slightly lower for new homes purchased from the builder. The
LTT is calculated on the purchase price and is payable by the Purchaser upon
registration of a Transfer/Deed of Land in the Ontario Land Registry Office on
closing. Here is the formula to calculate Provincial LTT:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>0.5%
on the first $55,000 of the purchase price;</li>
<li>1.0%
above $55,000 up to and including $250,000;</li>
<li>1.5%
above $250,000 up to and including $400,000;</li>
<li>2%
above $400,000.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Using our assessed value of $500,000, the LTT is $6475 for
each city. Toronto home-buyers have to pay an additional Municipal LTT in the
amount of $5725, or $12,200 total!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>A note on HST: </b>As
you may or may not know, the HST only applies to the purchase of new
homes. Resale homes are exempt from the HST. Does the purchase price include
HST or is it payable upon closing? You may be eligible for an HST rebate if you
buy your new (or substantially renovated) home from a builder. You can apply
for the rebate either: immediately after closing if you move into the home as your
primary residence, or; after you have rented it out for at least one year. If
you re-sell the new home without moving in, you must pay the full HST amount
when you purchase from the builder and cannot apply for a rebate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
New home buyers can apply for a 36% rebate of the federal
portion of HST applicable (5%) up to $6,300 for homes costing $350,000 or less.
If the price is between $350,000 and $450,000 (before tax), the rebate reduces proportionately.
For homes $350,000 and under the GST paid reduces from 5% to 3.5%. There is no
rebate for homes priced over $450,000. Claiming the rebate requires you to fill
out Form GST190 and file it with your personal income tax. You can also apply
for a 75% rebate of the provincial portion of HST applicable (8%) up to
$24,000.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope this blog has been informative. If you have any
questions or comments, please feel free to post! If you need any legal help
with a real estate matter, I’d be more than happy to help.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03232182615727135300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4602728945543856679.post-50364108831595658532014-07-02T15:21:00.002-04:002014-07-02T15:22:13.137-04:00How to Incorporate in Ontario; How to Federally Incorporate<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><u>How to Incorporate in Ontario; How to
Federally Incorporate<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b><u>PLEASE NOTE</u>: The following is not meant as specific legal advice
but rather general information. This article considers businesses that sell
goods or services in Canada only.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-indent: 18.0pt;">
<b><u>5 Basic Steps </u></b><u><o:p></o:p></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> Ø<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Step 1 – INTRO:
Consider general incorporation issues<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> Ø<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Step 2 –
NAME & NUANS SEARCH: Establish that the desired name is permitted<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> Ø<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Step 3 – PREPARE
& FILE Corporate documents and the Articles of Incorporation<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"> Ø<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><i>Step 4 –
ORGANIZATION: Corporate organization (By-Laws, etc.)</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
Congratulations! You’ve decided
to start a for-profit business. Are you going to <i>incorporate</i> your business? When you incorporate your business, it’s
considered to be a legal entity that’s separate from the owners (and
shareholders). As an owner of a corporation, you will not be personally liable
for its acts, debts, or obligations. Incorporation
is not necessary for every business or company. Alternative corporate vehicles
such as a sole proprietorship or partnership may be appropriate, given the
circumstances.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
Accordingly, your first step is
to actually <i>think</i> about the best
vehicle for your business. Next, you need to name your business. You will then
have to prepare the relevant applications and other required forms and
documents. Lastly, you will need to prepare your company’s by-laws and other
corporate documents. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first table below lists some of the main advantages and
disadvantages of incorporation, both pro and con. The table that follows
compares federal vs. provincial incorporation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b><i>STEP 1 – WHY INCORPORATE?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 550.8pt;" valign="top" width="734"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>INCORPORATION<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 275.4pt;" valign="top" width="367"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>ADVANTAGES<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 275.4pt;" valign="top" width="367"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>DISADVANTAGES<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 275.4pt;" valign="top" width="367"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 7.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Limited
liability; <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Transferable
ownership;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Continuous
existence; <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Separate
legal entity; <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Easier
to raise capital; <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Possibly lower taxes for incorporated businesses, which could translate to tax
advantages.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 275.4pt;" valign="top" width="367"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.05pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Corporations are closely regulated; <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.05pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Costlier than a partnership or sole
proprietorship; <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.05pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Extensive corporate records required (e.g.
shareholder and director meetings, annual government filings, etc.); <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.05pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->- Risk of conflict between shareholders & directors; <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 8.1pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -7.05pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->*Residency requirements for directors (25% of
directors must be Canadian residents).<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b><i>FEDERAL OR PROVINCIAL
INCORPORATION?<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-table-layout-alt: fixed; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 90.45pt;" valign="top" width="121"><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 233.9pt;" valign="top" width="312"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>FEDERAL <o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 226.45pt;" valign="top" width="302"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>PROVINCIAL<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 90.45pt;" valign="top" width="121"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>ADVANTAGES<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 233.9pt;" valign="top" width="312"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->The corporation may carry on business in all
provinces & territories (requires additional provincial registration)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Able to use the same corporate name in each
province or territory, even if another company is already doing business
under a similar name.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Enhanced corporate name protection, second
only to trademark protection. The corporate name is generally reserved for
use anywhere in Canada (excepting Quebec).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Can operate cross-country as of right, subject
to provincial extra-provincial filing requirements.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 226.45pt;" valign="top" width="302"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Incorporator's responsibility to ensure that
proposed corporate name is available for use. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 8.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Names not usually rejected, unless they
conflict with another confusingly similar name already in use.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 90.45pt;" valign="top" width="121"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>DISADVANTAGES<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 233.9pt;" valign="top" width="312"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Higher initial set-up costs (federal
incorporation costs and extra-provincial registration fee(s)). Federal
corporations in Ontario & Prince Edward Island may register for free;<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Much more annual paperwork: filings
required by Federal Director, plus all provincially
required filings.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Federal Name Granting Guidelines are very
strict and many proposed names are rejected.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 7.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.8pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Incorporation Fee: $200.00 <o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 226.45pt;" valign="top" width="302"><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Corporate name only protected in province or territory of incorporation<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Can only operate within the province of incorporation
as of right. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 8.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Must register extra-provincially if operating
in other provinces.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 8.8pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -7.1pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Incorporation Fee (varies; ON $300.00)<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>STEP 2 – SELECT
YOUR CORPORATE OR BUSINESS NAME (and NUANS Report)<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Choosing a corporate or business name is more difficult than
choosing a name for a sole proprietorship or partnership because incorporation
calls for stricter name requirements. A corporate or
business name must identify the corporation and its activities, and include a
title such as “Ltd.”, “Inc.”, or “Corp.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Canada, corporate names can be in English, French or
both. You may also use a separate, equivalent English and French name. For
example, "Target Market Inc." (English form)/"Marché Cible
Inc." (French form). Before it grants approval, the Provincial Registrar
(or federal Corporations Directorate) must decide whether your proposed
corporate name is not identical or similar to any other existing company names.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>NAME RESTRICTIONS<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When choosing a corporate name you cannot use words or
phrases that are vulgar, obscene or objectionable (in any language). Also
prohibited are words with restricted use under federal or provincial laws
(think copyright or trademark). You can’t use a person’s name unless that
person has or had a material interest in the business and has given written
permission. If the person is not living and the name is used within 30 years of
the date of death, written consent of the estate is required. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You cannot use words that imply your business is associated
with the Crown or government – federal, provincial, or municipal – without its
written consent. Likewise, a private
post-secondary institution cannot use the words "college,"
"institute" or "university" without the written consent of
the Ministry of Education. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Business names must be registered in the Roman alphabet (e.g.
English, French, Spanish, Italian, Latin, etc.) but may contain numerals. Other
alphabets must be translated and registered in a language using the Roman
alphabet. If you wish to market or advertise in a foreign language or alphabet,
you may do so as long as you display your business name in a Roman alphabet
(i.e., English or French). Interestingly
enough, the following marks may be used in the name, but not as the first
character: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
! " # $ % & ' ( ) * + ,
- . / : ; > = < ? [ ] \ ^ ` .<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a final note, if the corporation intends to carry on
business using a name other than its actual corporate name, the business name
must be registered under the Business Names Act.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>PERFORM RELEVANT SEARCHES<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No matter where in Canada you incorporate, a name search needs
to be done. A name search is a report required by the federal and most
provincial/territorial governments when granting new corporate names for use.
The report lists similar and existing corporate names, trademarks, and the
availability of the proposed name.
This search is known as a <b>NUANS</b> (Newly
Updated Automated Name Search) report.<b> </b>It
is a computer-printed search report that shows existing corporate names,
business names, and trademarks that are similar to your proposed corporate
name. The NUANS report is valid for 90 days from the date it was obtained. <a href="http://www.nuans.com/houses-maisons/nm_results-resultats_mn.cgi?sh_prov=ON&lang=EN&sh_city=">This
is a link to a list of vendors that provide NUANS searches in Ontario</a>. <b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The NUANS report is
not necessary if you are incorporating a numbered company</i>. Note that the
number is automatically selected by the government. The incorporation process
for a numbered company is quicker than that for a named one; it’s also possible
to first incorporate a numbered company quickly, and then later apply for a
NUANS report and change the status of the company from a numbered to a named
corporation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In some provinces, such as British Columbia and Nova Scotia,
a name search is performed after you’ve submitted a Name Approval Request or
Name Reservation Request Form. If the results of the search are acceptable and
your name is approved, it is then reserved for a set number of days during
which you must complete the incorporation process or restart the procedure all
over again.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>STEP 3 – PREPARE
AND FILE YOUR CORPORATE DOCUMENTS (i.e., Articles of Incorporation)<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be careful when completing
this step! Preparing your corporate documents requires a little attention to
detail, as a corporation’s ability to exercise power and carry on business is
limited by it articles of incorporation. Your documents should address the
following:<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">*The
minimum and maximum number of directors;<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The
nature of the corporation's business;<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The issuance
of shares, including any attached rights, privileges, conditions and
restrictions;<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Shareholder
rights, including voting rights; <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Borrowing
and mortgaging powers.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most people usually find this step to be confusing and
complicated. Generally, to incorporate your business in Ontario, you’ll need to
prepare the following documents:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> ·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The Memorandum (sets out the Company’s rules of
conduct);<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> ·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The Articles of Incorporation (sets out the
rules and regulations that will govern the conduct of the </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
company’s members and
directors);<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> ·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The Notice of Directors (states required
information on directors. You must also submit a federally-</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
based NUANS report) (federal
incorporation only). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 6.0pt;">
You may be able to find sample
templates of these documents online, or visit the business section of your
local library. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>FILE YOUR DOCUMENTS AND APPLY FOR INCORPORATION</i></b><i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can now incorporate your business on the websites of the
Federal Corporations Directorate and most provincial registries. You may also
submit your application (forms and fees) for incorporation by snail-mail to the
Registrar. You’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation after you’ve successfully
registered your new corporation. There are many obvious advantages to filing
online, such as convenience and speed. You will receive an immediate acknowledgement when you
file online – it’s also $50 cheaper. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the corporation will have a
word name rather than a number name, a NUANS name search report must be
submitted with the articles of incorporation. The NUANS name search report is a
seven-page, computer-printed search report consisting of existing corporate
names, business names and trademarks that are similar to the proposed corporate
name. The NUANS name search is valid for 90 days from the date on which it was
obtained. The NUANS name search report is not necessary if incorporating a
corporation with a number name.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Federal incorporation online<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To federally incorporate online, file the following
documents in the prescribed form with Corporations Canada using its Online
Filing Centre:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Form 1, Articles of Incorporation</b> (Original
signatures of the incorporator(s) are not required. However, retain signed
copies of the original documents in the corporate records).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b>*Form 2, Initial Registered Office Address
and First Board of Directors</b> (Original signatures of the incorporator(s)
are not required. However, retain signed copies of the original documents in
the corporate records).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>STEP 4 – PROCEED
WITH BALANCE OF CORPORATE ORGANIZATION</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this step, you’ll take care of a number of corporate
house-keeping matters. You will prepare “By-Law No. 1”, which deals with
general operating matters (e.g. meetings, notice, quorum, officers, proxies,
execution of documents, etc.). You will also need to prepare any other required
by-law, such as by-law No. 2 (addresses the borrowing and pledging of a
corporation’s assets as security).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You may also need to draft the initial written resolutions
of the directors (or minutes for any meeting held), which addresses how to pass
by-laws, allot and issue shares, appoint officers, approve a sample share
certificate, approve the corporate seal (if any), determine the fiscal year end,
and pass any other necessary or appropriate resolutions. Also, you may have to
draft the initial written resolutions of the shareholders (or prepare minutes
if a meeting is held) to ratify by-laws, elect permanent directors, appoint
auditors or accountants (as the case may be) and pass any other shareholder's
resolutions that may be necessary or appropriate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you incorporate in Ontario, you must file a Form 1
(Initial Return) with the Ministry of Government Services. If a federal
corporation is formed, you must register in any province where the corporation will
carry on business.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope this helps you get started! As always, feel free to
post any comments or questions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>*A Note on Directors
and Officers<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are a few important requirements to mention. Firstly,
there must be at least 1 director (over the age of 18). You can choose a set
number or range for the number of Directors, who can only be individuals. You
must provide the details of each Director's residential address and their
Canadian residency status (25% of directors must be Canadian, or if less than 4
directors, at least one must be a Canadian resident). Directors can also be
shareholders and officers of the same company. The Officers consist of a
company's senior management (e.g. President, Secretary and Treasurer). Each
company must appoint a President and a Secretary. You must provide the date on
which the officer or officers were elected and appointed. One person can be
President/Secretary/shareholder/Director of the company. Officers need not be
Canadian residents.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03232182615727135300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4602728945543856679.post-42868612740366951782014-06-11T08:30:00.000-04:002014-06-11T08:30:02.394-04:00Family Class – Spousal Sponsorship Applications<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; text-align: center;">
<b><u><span lang="EN-US">Family Class – Spousal
Sponsorship Applications</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-indent: 36pt;">A spousal sponsorship application
can be a confusing and complicated experience. In addition to the numerous
forms required from both the sponsor and the principal applicant (the sponsored
person, applying to become a Permanent Resident), there are also many
supporting documents and evidence that you must include in your application.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-indent: 36pt;">It may take some time to properly
prepare the application, but it is very important to do so, as incomplete applications
may be returned to you, delaying your application. It can take as little as a
couple of weeks to as long as several months to prepare an application,
depending on the documents needed and the time required to obtain them. Client
cooperation is another major factor!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; text-align: left;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="text-indent: 17.85pt;">Eligibility criteria for sponsors are
relatively broad. However, per Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s (CIC)
website, y</span><span style="text-indent: 17.85pt;">ou</span><b style="text-indent: 17.85pt;"> may not </b><span style="text-indent: 17.85pt;">be
eligible</span><span style="text-indent: 17.85pt;"> if you: failed to meet the terms of a
previous sponsorship agreement; did not follow a court order as it relates to
alimony or child support; receive government financial help for reasons other
than being disabled; or were convicted of a violent crime. Current imprisonment and
declared bankruptcies (that you have not yet been released from) are also bars
to sponsorship.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-indent: 17.85pt;">Your starting point will be the guides </span><span lang="EN-US" style="text-indent: 17.85pt;">CIC provides for sponsorship applications, including country-specific guides for the principal applicant. The Document Checklist (IMM 5491) is also a good place to begin. This article is meant only as an overview of a typical Family Class (spouse) sponsorship application. It is not meant to replace the guides as a source of information and instructions on how to complete the application. You must follow the instructions as listed in the application forms and guides.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-indent: 17.85pt;">The
Document Checklist is extensive, and the fine print means a great deal of
patience is required to read it. A simplified breakdown of the main forms and
documents required for sponsors and principal applicants is as follows: </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo1; mso-text-indent-alt: -18.0pt; text-indent: -36.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span>I.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><u><span lang="EN-US">SPONSOR <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 17.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<u><span lang="EN-US">Forms (all original and signed, except Receipt)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 71.7pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship
Agreement and Undertaking (IMM 1344)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 71.7pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Sponsorship Evaluation (IMM 5481) <b>or</b> Financial Evaluation (IMM 1283)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 71.7pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(3)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Use of a Representative (IMM 5476), <i>if applicable</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 71.7pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(4)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Statutory Declaration of Common Law
Union (IMM 5409), <i>if applicable</i>
(co-signor is CL)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 71.7pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(5)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Sponsor Questionnaire (IMM 5540)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 71.7pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(6)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Copy 2 of Receipt (IMM 5401) (stamped
if paid at FI)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 53.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;">
<u><span lang="EN-US">Supporting
Documents (photocopies)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">PR Card (if not issued, Record of
Landing (IMM 1000)) or Confirmation of PR (IMM 5292/ 5688), <b>or</b>; Canadian Citizenship Card, <b>or</b>; Canadian birth certificate, <b>or</b>; Canadian passport, <b>or</b>; Citizenship Certificate without
photo, issued before Feb. 15, 1977.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Marriage certificate <b>only</b> if you have a co-signer <b><u>and</u></b> he/she is your spouse.<b> </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(3)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">If your spouse or common-law partner
is a co-signer, see (1)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(4)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">If you had previous marriages or CL
relationships: proof that you are separated (income tax forms, legal docs), if
you are separated; Divorce cert., if you are divorced; Annulment cert., if
marriage was annulled; Death cert., if former spouse/CL partner is deceased;
Declaration of severance of CL relationship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 53.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;">
<u><span lang="EN-US">Supporting
Docs, Sponsor and Co-Signer (if applicable)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Original “Option C Printout” of last
Notice of Assessment for most recent taxation year (contact CRA for this
printout free of charge@1-800-959-8281)<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Original letter from your current
employer stating your period of employment, salary, and regular hours per week,
<b>AND/OR</b>: <u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 92.15pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">a.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">For the 12 months preceding the date
of your sponsorship, if you are the sole owner(s) of, or partners in an
unincorporated business, provide evidence of self-employment income (statement
of business activities)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 92.15pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">b.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">If you received interest on income
earned, provide evidence (bank statement showing rate of interest, deposit
amount and length of time deposit held)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(3)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">If you must meet Minimum Necessary
Income (MNI) requirement and you are not producing an Option C printout, or if
the total income reported on the printout is less than the MNI, provide a
photocopy of the following documents:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 92.15pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">a.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Evidence of employment income (pay
stubs) over the 12 months preceding the date of your sponsorship application,
if employed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 92.15pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">b.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Evidence of self-employment income
(statement of business activities) over the 12 months preceding the date of
your sponsorship application, if you and your co-signer are the sole owners of
or partners in an unincorporated business<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 92.15pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">c.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Evidence of interest income (bank
statement showing rate of interest, deposit amount and length of time deposit
held), over the 12 months preceding the date of your sponsorship application,
if you and your co-signer received interest<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 92.15pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">d.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Evidence of: interest income (e.g. dividends),
rental income (e.g. statement of real estate rentals), pension income, special
benefits income (cert. delivered by HRDC confirming payment of maternity,
parental, or sickness benefits), other income received over the 12 months
preceding the date of your sponsorship application, if you and your co-signer
received such income. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(4)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Canadian citizens living exclusively
outside Canada must include proof of an intention to live in Canada with your
spouse, CL partner or conjugal partner and/or children once they become PRs of
Canada<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 70.85pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(5)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Medical Condition Statement, if a
dependent child included in the application is your adopted son or daughter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo1; mso-text-indent-alt: -18.0pt; text-indent: -36.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span>II.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><u><span lang="EN-US">APPLICANT<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 49.65pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;">
<u><span lang="EN-US">Forms
(all original and signed, except Receipt)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Generic Application Form for Canada
(IMM 0008)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Additional Dependents / Declaration
(IMM 0008DEP), if applicable<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(3)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Schedule A – Background /
Declaration (IMM 5669), for sponsored person and each family member 18 years of
age or over<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(4)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Spouse / Partner Questionnaire (IMM
5490)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(5)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Additional Family Information (IMM
5406), for sponsored person and each family member 18 years of age or over <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(6)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Use of a Representative (IMM 5476),
if applicable<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 49.65pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;">
<u><span lang="EN-US">Supporting
Documents (photocopies)<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Identity and civil status documents
(see country-specific guide)<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Children information (see
country-specific guide)<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(3)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Travel documents and passports (see
country-specific guide)<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(4)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Police Certificates and clearances (see
country-specific guide)<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 70.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(5)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Proof of medical exam for sponsored
person and each of his/her dependents (Copy 1 of Client Biodata and Summary
(IMM 1017), signed and provided by panel physician)<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 52.9pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;">
<u><span lang="EN-US">Forms
and Documents as required by Country-Specific Guide/Instructions<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Supplementary
Information Form (Details of Foreign Travel) (Appendix A of Guide)<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 71.7pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -17.85pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Proof of Relationship to Sponsor<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo1; mso-text-indent-alt: -18.0pt; text-indent: -36.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span>III.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><u><span lang="EN-US">SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS & EVIDENCE</span></u></b><u><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(1)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Proof of Relationship to sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 3.0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo8; text-indent: -14.15pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">a.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Proof of sponsor’s visit, including
airline tickets, boarding passes, copies of pages of passport showing
entry/exit stamps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 3.0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo8; text-indent: -14.15pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">b.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Wedding photos showing all rituals
of a traditional wedding<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 3.0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo8; text-indent: -14.15pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">c.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Wedding reception and post-wedding
photographs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 3.0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo8; text-indent: -14.15pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">d.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Evidence of continued contact w/
Sponsor such as phone bills, letters, emails<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 3.0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo8; text-indent: -14.15pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">e.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Marriage certificate issued by
Registrar of Marriages<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 3.0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo8; text-indent: -14.15pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">f.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">If you are CL or conjugal partner,
provide evidence: that your relationship is genuine and continuing; has existed
for at least 12 months prior to your application; details of the history of
your relationship, and; at least two statutory declarations from individuals
with personal knowledge of your relationship supporting your claims.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l5 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">(2)<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Six
(6) recent photos of yourself according to Appendix B: Photograph
Specifications<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt;">
Although the entire process may still seem a bit perplexing to you, I hope this article helped explain or clarify a few points. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03232182615727135300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4602728945543856679.post-39495901726099981542014-02-22T17:43:00.001-05:002014-06-10T14:32:37.920-04:00Urban Farming and the Right to Raise Chickens <div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Though
‘urban farming’ is gaining in popularity and credibility from consumers,
citizens, food and industry watchdogs alike, it seems municipal governments and
many residents are less than thrilled with the idea.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Urban
farming may seem fairly self-explanatory, but it should be noted that the
phrase encompasses community gardening (or even a garden on your balcony), composting
(in your backyard, city, or community), bee keeping, and keeping chickens. It
should also be noted that none of the above raises more concern than keeping
chickens in one’s backyard. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Currently,
keeping chickens is outlawed in the City of Toronto. Despite the law, there is
a rather large number of “underground” chicken farmers in the City (<a href="http://www.yongestreetmedia.ca/features/backyardchickens05082013.aspx">read
here for more</a>). It is also outlawed in Hamilton and Barrie, though there is
a growing call for those municipalities to update their by-laws on the issue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To
the west of Toronto, in the County of Peel (Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga),
backyard chicken coops are both legal and illegal – depending on which county and
area you reside in. It is banned in the City of Mississauga and Caledon, unless
the chickens are located on property zoned for agricultural purposes. Brampton,
however, is one of the few municipalities in Ontario that permit chicken coops
in residential areas. As far as I know, Guelph and Niagara Falls are the only
other major towns or cities in the province that allow backyard hens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In
Mississauga, Port Credit resident Marianne Kalich has been fighting the City
for over two years for her right to keep chickens in her backyard. Ms. Kalich
started a petition, which you can <a href="http://www.change.org/en-CA/petitions/amend-the-mississauga-city-by-law-98-04-to-allow-keeping-of-backyard-chickens">view
and sign if you want here</a>. Some of her reasons for wanting to raise
backyard hens include:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the desire
to have pesticide-free organic food; for concerns related to animal cruelty and
the conditions of slaughterhouses and abattoirs; and to use waste from the
chickens as fertilizer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These
concerns appear to be grounded in reality. A <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/pesticide-residue-found-on-nearly-half-of-organic-produce-1.2487712">recent
study</a> f<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">ound that nearly half the organic fresh fruits and vegetables
tested across Canada in the past two years contained pesticide residue,
according to a CBC News analysis of data supplied by the Canadian Food
Inspection Agency (CFIA). <a href="http://www.davidsuzuki.org/what-you-can-do/queen-of-green/faqs/food/understanding-gmo/">According
to The David Suzuki Foundation website</a>, t</span>he safety of genetically modified foods is
unproven, <a href="http://www.davidsuzuki.org/blogs/science-matters/2009/09/more-science-needed-on-effects-of-genetically-modifying-food-crops/">while
a growing body of research connects these foods with health concerns and
environmental damage</a>. The website also adds that for this reason, most
developed nations have policies requiring mandatory labeling of<span class="apple-converted-space"> such </span>foods at the very least, and some
have issued bans on<span class="apple-converted-space"> genetically modified
</span>food production and imports. This is not the case in Canada, however. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In
2008, Maple Leaf Foods was the source of a listeria outbreak. More recently, XL
Foods was the source of an e-coli outbreak. Based on this and countless recent
meat and food recalls, it is understandable that reasonable Canadians may have
a lack of trust towards food companies and even the CFIA. For many, the debacle
involving the CFIA and XL Foods was the last straw, so to speak. As the story
unfolded, alarming details were made public, including the fact that <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/xl-foods-warned-6-times-over-lapses-before-e-coli-outbreak-1.1372329">XL
Foods was warned by the CFIA at least 6 times over sanitation and food
processing concerns</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Moreover,
based on recent indications, the federal government does not seem to fully appreciate
the importance of this issue, or at least do not have a grasp on it. After
months of insisting that the Canadian food safety system does not need more
inspectors, it appears the federal government has suddenly changed its mind.
When it released its budget on February 11, 2014, the government said that the
Canadian Food Inspection Agency will hire 200 more federal food safety
inspectors over the next 5 years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
ethical treatment of animals and prevention of animal cruelty is another reason
why more people are becoming interested in raising their own chickens. “The
Earthlings” is a recent documentary on the conditions of animals raised for the
meat (and by-products such as eggs) and the conditions of the abattoirs
themselves. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCRspwfKHmI">The film can
be viewed here</a>, though I must warn you that it contains graphic and
disturbing scenes. <a href="http://www.bramptonguardian.com/news-story/4029239-mississauga-chicken-keeper-runs-afoul-of-city-bylaw/">In
a recent article</a>, Ms. Kalich has stated that urban farming is a “more
nutritious and humane” alternative to factory farming. She also claims that
“chickens are much more likely to carry disease when they’re hatched in a
factory…where they’re extremely stressed”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While
researching this topic, I came across a lot of comments that said hens stop
laying eggs after a year or two and, thus, many fear what would happen to the
chickens after they are no longer useful. Unsurprisingly, there is a fair
amount of misinformation out there. According to <a href="http://www.mypetchicken.com/backyard-chickens/chicken-help/How-long-do-hens-lay-eggs-H76.aspx">http://www.mypetchicken.com</a>,
chickens tend to lay fewer eggs as they get older, but most breeds can lay more
or less productively for five or seven years. It is standard practice for
factory farms to slaughter hens <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">at a year old or so because
they might lay a couple fewer eggs a week. Laying one or two fewer eggs per
week in a backyard or domestic setting does not cause fiscal concern, but a
commercial entity such as a factory farm sees "financial sense" in
killing all their one- or two-year-olds and bringing in fresh chattel.</span> Furthermore,
there are many farms and other types of chicken farms that accept older hens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Doubtless,
there are many who simply do not want chickens in their residential
neighbourhood. Many believe chickens should properly belong on a farm or other
agricultural area. “People get very stressed when they have raccoons, rats,
skunks and opossums in their neighbourhood, all of which are attracted to
chickens and eggs,” says Barry MacKay, director of the Animal Alliance of
Canada, in <a href="http://www.mississauga.com/news-story/4372186-backyard-chickens-pilot-pushed-to-2015-at-earliest/">an
article in the Mississauga News</a>. Mr. MacKay’s group has lobbied against
urban coops in the GTA. But don’t Mr. MacKay’s fears regarding these scavenging
animals apply equally to garbage left at curbside, which is in fact a weekly
occurrence in neighbourhoods all across the GTA?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In
the same article, Councillor Jim Tovey, of Ward 1 in Mississauga, said, “there
is also some concern about chickens flying the coop…flying over fences and
scaring children.” It should be noted that Councillor Tovey had initially
supported the idea of backyard chicken coops as recent as August 2013, where he
stated that he wondered why the City allows snakes, lizards and ferrets, but no
chickens. “People want to grow local and eat local and this is a way to get fresh
eggs,” he said. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
concern about chickens flying the coop and scaring children is a rather weak
argument. If harming children is the concern, then a strong argument can be
made that dogs are a bigger threat. <a href="http://www.thespec.com/news-story/4372022-mississauga-sees-spike-in-dog-bites/">In
a story featured in the Hamilton Spectator’s website</a>, Mississauga recently
witnessed a sharp spike in dog bites, but it is highly unlikely that the City
would consider banning dogs. Instead, leash laws would be cited. The idea is
that reasonable restrictions to animal ownership are in place and are intended
to be followed by the animal owner. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ms.
Kalich says <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: black;">she discards significantly less food waste
because she feeds most of her scraps to her chickens, which also provide her
with “chemical free” fertilizer for her plants. </span>In fact, the waste created by hens serves as
an excellent nitrogen-rich fertilizer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Noise
concerns are also fairly prominent. Most noise would be attributed to roosters;
however, roosters are not required for chickens to lay eggs – only to fertilize
them. A neighbour’s barking dog could make more noise than cooped hens in a
neighbour’s backyard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There
was a Mississauga council meeting in November 2013 where some wards expressed
interest in possibly hosting a pilot project. <a href="http://www.mississauga.com/news-story/4372186-backyard-chickens-pilot-pushed-to-2015-at-earliest/">Ward
1 Councillor Tovey said</a> any such project in his ward would have to wait
until at least 2015 and said that he’s looking at how other municipalities have
ruled on the keeping of urban chickens. Councillor Tovey need look no further
than another member of the County of Peel; The City of Brampton.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.brampton.ca/en/City-Hall/Bylaws/All%20Bylaws/Animal%20Control.pdf">The
City of Brampton’s By-Laws</a> explain the circumstances in which a Brampton
resident may keep chickens in her backyard. By-Law 13 contains the rules
regarding owning 2 or less hens. The by-law provides for hens to be kept in an
animal quarter (i.e., chicken coop) that is at least 8 metres (25 feet) from
any dwelling, school, store or shop, and at least 2 metres (6 feet) from each
boundary of the property on which it is located. The coop must be constructed
to prevent the escape of hens and properly maintained. All equipment and
materials must be kept within a building or structure (such as a shed). The
coop must also be screened from the view of the general public – which may
necessitate plants, hedges, or a fence to be erected as a screen. The hens’ food,
as well as their waste, must be contained in airtight containers to prevent
odours and disposed of in a manner that will not create a public nuisance or
health hazard. The <a href="http://www.mississauga.ca/file/COM/animalcontrol.pdf">City of Mississauga
By-Laws</a> prohibit the keeping of chickens on one’s residentially zoned
property.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The underground urban chicken farmer movement is growing. Those that
keep chickens claim hens have therapeutic benefits, as they are good pets and
companions. They also claim that since the eggs are fresher, they are
healthier and better tasting. More and more are keeping urban hens, but until
Mississauga legislation is changed, these people are running fowl of the law. </span><!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03232182615727135300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4602728945543856679.post-46346980128937306292014-01-11T23:07:00.001-05:002014-01-11T23:07:45.015-05:00Happy New Year!All the best for a safe and happy 2014.<br />
<br />
Welcome to Nayar Law!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03232182615727135300noreply@blogger.com0Mississauga, ON, Canada43.5890452 -79.644119843.2211372 -80.2895668 43.9569532 -78.9986728