Taxation on the Transfer of Farm Business Assets to Family Members
Every farm business, whether a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation, will some day change ownership. This Factsheet deals with the tax implications of transferring farm assets to family members and the options available to minimize tax. Prior to any major transfer of assets it is critical to consult a tax advisor. Do this well in advance, since the best tax results often require a two or three year planning window. For information on the sale of farm assets outside the family see OMAFRA Factsheet Taxation on the Sale of Farm Assets, Order No. 08-047. For an overview of the succession planning process refer to the Farm Succession Planning Guide, Publication 70. Table of Contents
Section 1: Non-Tax Issues of a Farm Transfer Components of Change in a Farm TransferA change in farm ownership is often a significant transition, with two significant components. One is the "procedural" dimension dealing with the how, when and what to transfer. This could include tax implications, credit arrangements, business organization, operating agreements, insurance, wills and legal documentation. The second is the "psychological" dimension. This involves the family and relationship dynamics that often determine the ultimate success of a family farm business transfer. Components include the meshing of personal and business goals, the willingness to let go of ownership, the selection and training of a successor(s) and communication among family members. Transition Manager and Team WorkA farm transfer and succession plan can be complex. Given the multitude of components an advisory team is essential. A business management advisor can help the family:
The accounting and legal advisors can fine tune the alternatives and implement the decisions made by the family. The most successful farm business transfers usually reveal a strong transition manager who acts like a team captain. Ideally the farm business owner would fill this role, providing the leadership, attitude and patience needed for a successful transition. Important ConsiderationsClarifying GoalsBefore formulating any meaningful transfer plans, it is crucial to clearly identify family and business goals and communicate these to all farm family members. Some farm families find this easy, others benefit from professional advice. A current business advisor may be able to help with this step or direct you to another professional. Farm Business ViabilitySince the business must be profitable - or have profit potential - for a farm transfer to occur, determine the financial condition of the business early in the transfer planning process. Financial Needs of ParentsIf parents have other assets or sources of income they could be more generous in both a transfer price and credit terms. However, this would not be the case if the parents have considerable cash needs. Successor TrainingA successful farm business transition is more likely where the
successor(s) have management experience. This is often obtained through owning
assets, revenue-sharing arrangements, or where progressive management responsibility
is given over time. Section 2 - Methods of Transferring Farm Business AssetsThere are several methods of transferring farm business assets.
Farming and other assets can be transferred by bequest through an individual's will. If certain criteria are met, most farm assets can transfer from parent to child upon death free of immediate tax. In the absence of a transfer plan the will can be a "contingency" plan. Unfortunately some families use the will as their primary transfer vehicle, creating uncertainty for the farming children. It also prevents farming children from developing their own succession plans with their children.
While farming children would prefer this method, not all farmers can afford to make such a gift. Many farmers do partially gift their farms by selling to their children at below fair market value or by gifting certain assets. In either case there is no tax on a gift of farming assets. The gift of a non-farming asset to a child however may be taxable. Placing a child on title to a property is also a considered a gift to the child and a disposition or transfer of the property for the parent. One exception is the gifting of inventory, which is fully taxable in the year it is transferred. Gifts to minor children or spouses can result in property income from the asset being attributed back to the giver. These rules are covered in Section
The sale of farm assets to family members at fair market value (FMV) is the same as selling to a non-family member. Normal tax calculations are made. Good planning is essential to create the desired tax results.
Most transfers involve a combination of bequest, gift and sale. Parents often desire to sell farm assets at the lowest price they can afford in order to defer the maximum amount of tax. A bequest can then be used to distribute other assets to non-farming children on the parents' death. Section 3 - Income Tax Rollovers and DeferralsThe Income Tax Act allows farmers
to defer tax on the transfer of farming assets to a spouse or child. This is called
a "rollover". Spouses can also receive non-farming assets by way of
rollovers. On a rollover of farming assets to a child any price between zero and
fair market value can be chosen, although for tax calculation purposes the tax
cost is used as the lowest value. The rollover provides significant flexibility
in choosing appropriate transfer values. Even though the $750,000 capital gains
exemption may be available, it is desirable to maintain the eligibility for the
rollover. The term "child" has an extended meaning and includes a daughter, son, grandchild, great grandchild, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, adopted child, step child or their spouses who are resident in Canada. In addition a person who, at any time before aged 19, was wholly dependent on the taxpayer for support and of whom the taxpayer had, at that time, in law or in fact, the custody and control is considered a child.2 Rollovers of property to a child must meet the requirements outlined below. Requirements for Tax Deferral Rollovers from Parent to ChildTo qualify for the rollover to a child the eligible property must, before the transfer, be principally used in a farming business in which the individual, their spouse, common-law partner or their child or parent, was actively involved on a regular and continuous basis.3 In 2006 the words "immediately before" were inserted into Section 70 of the Act that made the provision more difficult to meet. However Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has indicated they intend to revert to the phrase "before the transfer". According to the CRA "principally used" means the property must have been farmed for more than 50 per cent of the time of ownership by the transferor. See OMAFRA Factsheet Taxation on the Sale of Farm Assets, Order No. 08-047 for a more detailed explanation of the term "principally used". Other Considerations
Pitfalls that could negate rollovers
Section 4 - Capital GainsTaxation of Capital GainsFifty per cent of a capital gain is tax free. The other half is subject to regular tax. This portion, called the taxable capital gain, is added to all other income in the year the gain occurs. Any allowable capital losses can be deducted from the taxable capital gain. If the capital gain occurs on a corporately owned asset, 50 per cent of the gain is tax free and is allocated to the Capital Dividend Account. Dividends from this account are received tax free by the shareholder. The other half of the gain is taxable in the corporation. Some tax credits may be affected in the current year and/or the year after reporting a capital gain, even though the capital gains exemption is used. This is because the taxable capital gain is reported on your tax return and affects the calculations of tax credits even though the exemption is used to reduce the tax paid. The increased net income may result in the claw back of some benefits such as the Old Age Security and Child Tax Benefits in the current year and may also reduce them in the year following the capital gain. $750,000 Capital Gains Exemption5In 2007, the Capital Gains Exemption was increased
to $750,000 from $500,000 for dispositions occurring after March 18, 2007. The
$750,000 Capital Gains Exemption is available to individuals on the sale of qualified
farm property. Anyone who used the entire $100,000 general exemption when it was
eliminated in 1994 has $650,000 remaining. The exemption is also available to
partners in a partnership, since capital gains in a partnership flows directly
to the partners who can then use the exemption. The capital gains exemption is
not available to corporations; however, the shares of a family farm corporation
are eligible for the exemption. Qualified farm property6 includes:
Equipment and machinery are not eligible for the capital gains exemption. However, in a partnership or corporation, the value of equipment and inventory is included in the corporate shares or partnership interest. Qualified farm property must meet the following definitions:7
and
and
or
In all cases, the qualifying individuals - whether
farming as a sole proprietorship, a partnership or corporation - must be actively
engaged in management and/or the day-to-day activities of the business. Definition of "Principally Used"Similar to the requirements under the rollover
provision, the CRA defines "principally used" to mean "more than
50 per cent" from either a time or usage perspective. 1994 $100,000 Capital Gains ElectionIn 1994, the $100,000 capital gains exemption for general property was eliminated. At that time, individuals were allowed to elect to increase the adjusted cost base of their property by up to $100,000, but not exceeding the February 1994 value. If you made such an election on your qualified farm property, you are deemed to have disposed of the property and reacquired it in 1994. As a result you must now meet the more difficult post-June 17, 1987, rules for qualified farm property on a future sale. Splitting Capital Gains
Between Spouses |
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| Purchased 1975 | $150,000 |
| Legal Fees | 1,000
|
| Sold in 2008 |
600,000 |
| Legal Fees | 2,000 |
| Real estate fees | 20,000 |
| ACB= $150,000 + $1,000 + $2,000 + $20,000 = |
$173,000 |
| Capital gain: $600,000 - $173,000 |
$427,000 |
Table 2a. Within Family Transfer of Assets (Transfer to Spouse)
| Type of Asset |
While alive (inter vivos) | On Death (testamentary) |
|---|---|---|
| Farm Inventory - Cash Basis | No rollover - transfer at FMV ITA
ss. 69(1) | Rollover allowed to any beneficiary at cost of inventory |
| Farm Inventory - Accrual Basis | Transfer at FMV but with potential smaller tax implications because of accrual filing | Rollover allowed to any beneficiary at cost of inventory |
| Machinery
and Equipment - Post 1971 (Part XI) | Transfer at
UCC or FMV
| Automatic
rollover at UCC Can elect to transfer at FMV ITA ss. 70(6) and (6.2) |
| Buildings Post 1971 (Part XI) | Transfer
at UCC or FMV ITA ss. 73(1) and 73(1.01) | Automatic
rollover at UCC, election allowed to opt out of rollover and transfer at FMV ITA ss. 70(6) and (6.2) |
| Part XVII pre 1972 Machinery, Equipment and Buildings | Can transfer
and /or sell to spouse for use in business at cost, otherwise gift or transfer
at FMV. No recapture | Rollover at UCC |
| Quota (Eligible Capital Property) | Rollover
allowed at 4/3 cumulative eligible capital (CEC) No option to elect at any other value ITA ss. 24(2) | Automatic rollover at 4/3
cumulative eligible capital (CEC) No option to elect at any other value ITA ss. 24(2) |
| Land | Rollover
at ACB allowed Can elect to transfer at FMV ITA ss. 73(1) and 73(1.01) | Automatic rollover at ACB Can elect to transfer at FMV ITA ss. 70(6) and (6.2) |
| House | Transfer
at $0 or FMV (NOT in between if not a farming property) If the house is used in the farming business rollover rules would apply | Transfer
at $0 or FMV (NOT in between if not a farming property) If the house is used in the farming business rollover rules would apply |
| Farm Corporation Shares and Partnership Interest | Rollover at ACB allowed Can elect to transfer at FMV ITA ss. 73(1) and 73(1.01 | Automatic rollover at
ACB Can elect to transfer at FMV ITA ss. 70(6) and (6.2) |
Table 2b. Within Family Transfer of Assets (Transfer to Child)
| Type of Asset | While Alive (inter vivos) |
On Death (testamentary)
|
|---|---|---|
| Farm Inventory - Cash Basis | No
rollover - transfer at FMV ITA ss. 69(1) | Rollover allowed to any beneficiary at cost of inventory |
| Farm Inventory - Accrual Basis | Transfer at FMV but with potential smaller tax implications because of accrual filing | Rollover allowed to any beneficiary at cost of inventory |
| Machinery
and Equipment - Post 1971 (Part XI) | Transfer at between
ACB and FMV
ITA ss. 73(3) and 73(3.1) | Automatic
rollover at UCC Can elect to transfer between UCC and FMV. ITA ss. 70(9) and 70(9.01) |
| Buildings Post 1971 (Part XI) | Transfer between ACB and FMV but normally between
"4/3 CEC + 1971 Value" and FMV. ITA ss. 73(3) and 73(3.1) | Automatic
rollover at UCC, election allowed to opt out of rollover and transfer at price
between UCC and FMV. ITA ss. 70(9) and 70(9.01) |
| Part XVII pre 1972 Machinery, Equipment and Buildings | No tax deferral available - must transfer at either $0 or FMV. If gifted ($0) then child receives it at FMV. No recapture | No rollover available
- they pass to child at FMV No recapture but capital gain possible |
| Quota (Eligible Capital Property) | Transfer
between ACB and FMV but normally between "4/3 CEC + 1971 Value" and
FMV. ITA ss. 73(3) and 73(3.1) | Child or any other
beneficiary deemed to acquire quota at 4/3 of taxpayers cumulative eligible capital
(CEC) No income or loss is triggered ITA ss. 70(5.1) |
| Land | Rollover at ACB allowed Can transfer at any value between ACB and FMV ITA ss. 73(3) and 73(3.1 | Rollover at ACB allowed Can elect to transfer at any value between ACB and FMV ITA ss. 70(9) and 70(9.01) |
| House | Transfer at $0 or
FMV (NOT in between if not a farming property) If the house is used in the farming business rollover rules would apply | Transfer
at $0 or FMV (NOT in between if not a farming property) If the house is used in the farming business rollover rules would apply |
| Farm Corporation Shares and Partnership Interest | Rollover
at ACB allowed Can transfer at any value between ACB and FMV ITA ss. 73(4) and 73(4.1) | Rollover at ACB allowed Can elect to transfers at any value between ACB and FMV ITA ss. 70(9.2) and 70(9.21) |
In the Act and this Factsheet it is stated that certain eligible assets can be transferred to a child at values anywhere between their tax cost and fair market value (FMV). While these values are used to calculate tax implications, it does not prevent an asset being transferred below the tax cost, as in the case of a gift. For depreciable assets the tax cost is the undepreciated capital cost (UCC), and for land and other capital property it is the adjusted cost base (ACB). These values are used to calculate taxes
Example: A parent sells a piece of eligible land to a child for $50,000. The fair market value (FMV) of the property was $200,000 and it was purchased for $100,000 (ACB). What would be the outcome?
The parent would have proceeds of $50,000 - with no capital gain and no tax to pay because that amount is below the ACB. The child will pay $50,000 but for future tax calculation he or she is deemed to have acquired the land at the ACB of the parent or $100,000. The same result occurs if the parent gifted the property to the child.
If the selling price falls between the ACB and FMV part of the tax liability is incurred and part is deferred.
The $750,000 capital gains
exemption makes it attractive for both parties to sell as close to FMV as possible.
This provides the parent with tax-free proceeds (except for possible application
of the alternative minimum tax (see Section 9)) and the child an asset with a
higher ACB. To help finance the business and reduce debt charges, the parent can
charge a low interest rate. The parent may even forgive a mortgage in his or her
will. Holding a mortgage from a child also qualifies as a reserve and can spread
capital gains over 10 years, if needed, to avoid minimum tax.
Table 2a and Table 2b, Within Family Transfer of Assets, on previous page, provide a quick summary of the transfer options.
In general terms capital property,8 which includes most farm assets such as land, buildings, machinery, shares and partnership interests, can be transferred to a spouse or common law partner on a rollover basis that is fully tax deferred. This can occur before or after death. There is also an option to elect out of the rollover and allow the asset transfer at its FMV. This can be done on an asset-by-asset basis.
On a transfer to a spouse or common law partner there is no opportunity to set the price between the ACB and the FMV as there is on a transfer to a child.
Transfers of inventory and quota are the exceptions to the general rules. Inventory can be transferred on a rollover basis on death to any beneficiary however it must be transferred at FMV while alive.
Quota is considered eligible
capital property and a rollover to a spouse while alive or on death is allowed
as long as certain conditions are met. The conditions are:
However, there is no opportunity to elect to have the quota transfer take place at FMV.
Assets transferred to a spouse can result in income, such as interest or capital gains being attributed back to the transferring spouse. If for example a property was rolled over to a spouse and the spouse subsequently sold the property and incurred a capital gain, the capital gain would be attributed to the spouse who transferred the property and they would have to include the taxable capital gain in their income. Business income on the other hand is not attributed back to the transferring spouse.
In order to prevent these attribution rules from applying three conditions must be met:
Attribution
rules can also apply to transfers to minor children (income but not capital gains)
and loans to non-arms length persons.
This section deals with the tax implications
of transferring various types of assets to a child. Any differences between a
transfer while alive and at death are highlighted for the various types of assets.
The tax treatment of inventory is significantly different depending on when it is transferred to a child and how the farm files taxes.
Since cash-basis farmers only report income when received, one approach
is for the parent to hold an appropriately structured promissory note containing
restrictions on payment, such as payable 366 days after demand. A note without
restrictions as to when payment can be demanded represents "absolute payment"
of the debt, and in such a case CRA could claim that payment has been received
in full.
This approach allows inventory payments to be spread over
a number of years. The payments would be farm income, eligible for CPP and RRSP
contributions.
If the parent and child plan to operate in a partnership or corporation the parent could roll the inventory into the corporation or partnership and subsequently transfer shares or a partnership interest to the child. The timing of this type of transaction is important. If no other assets are transferred and the transfer to the child occurs soon after the inventory is moved, CRA could view it as a tax avoidance transaction and disallow it.
Transfers on DeathOn
death inventory can be rolled over to any beneficiary on a tax-deferred basis.
When the inventory is sold it becomes income to the beneficiary. Farmers who file
income tax on the cash basis have three options for reporting inventory and accounts
receivables (these are called "rights and things"12 ) on
death:
Table 3. Alternative Transfer Prices for Part XI Assets
| Today's FMV ($) | Various Family Sale Prices ($) | Cost ($) | UCC ($) | Deemed Proceeds to Parent(s) & Cost to Child ($) | Capital Gain ($) | Re-capture ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25,0001
| 25,000 |
20,000 | 12,000 |
25,0001 | 5,000 |
8,000 |
| 25,000 |
18,000 | 20,000 |
12,000 | 18,000 |
0 | 6,000 |
| 25,000 |
12,0002 | 20,000 |
12,000 | 12,0002 |
0 | 0 |
| 25,000 |
0 | 20,000 |
12,000 | 12,000 |
0 | 0 |
1 Assume a building and
that the parent used the capital gains exemption. The child's cost for CCA purposed
will be reduced to $20,000 due to parent's use of the capital gains exemption.
See Income Tax Act Paragraph 13(7)(e).
2 Because most parents want to avoid
recapture, the UCC is a common sale price.
Buildings, machinery and equipment are usually transferred
at or below their tax cost or in tax terminology their undepreciated capital cost
illustrates the results of some alternative family sale prices.
If the equipment has appreciated above the purchase value then it could also generate a capital gain, which may result in the following adjustments:
These adjustments do not apply on a transfer at death.
On
death, buildings, machinery and equipment automatically rollover to beneficiaries
at their undepreciated capital cost (UCC). This defers any recapture or capital
gains. Similar to the transfer while alive an election can be made to elect out
of this automatic rollover and select a price between UCC and FMV. Table 4 gives
some examples.
Table 4. Part XI Assets to a Child
| Rollover ($) | Election ($) | |
|---|---|---|
| FMV - Class 8 Asset | 60,000 |
60,000 |
| UCC |
30,000 | 30,000 |
| Rollover Value | 30,000 |
Not used |
| Election Value | Not used |
50,000 |
| Recapture |
0 | 20,000 |
There is no tax deferral for buildings, machinery and equipment purchased before 1972. They must transfer at their fair market value regardless of the sale price. The deemed proceeds for the parent is the fair market value while the cost to the child is the amount paid. However if the parent transfers these assets as an outright gift, the child is considered to have paid the FMV.
Most depreciable assets, such as equipment, have decreased in value and disappeared since 1971, creating no tax concerns; but good buildings may have accrued capital gains since 1971. There is no recapture on the transfer of these assets. The rule of thumb is to transfer at either zero or FMV.
On death there is no rollover for pre 1972 assets. They pass to a child at FMV. Such assets are not subject to recapture of capital cost allowance, but can incur a capital gain. Any capital gains on pre 1972 buildings would be eligible for the $750,000 capital gain exemption.
Generally
a principal residence is deemed to transfer at FMV regardless of the sale price
to the child. This is usually not a concern since a principal residence is exempt
from capital gains. However since the cost to the child is the price they paid,
it is to their advantage to have the transfer take place at either zero or FMV
as Table 5 below illustrates.
Table 5. Alternative Transfer Prices for Personal Residence
| 1971 Value ($) | Today's FMV ($) | Various Transfer Prices ($) | Deemed Proceeds to Parent ($) | Deemed Cost to Child ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25,000 |
95,000 | 95,000
| 95,000 |
95,000 |
|
25,000 | 95,000
| 55,000 |
95,000 | 55,000
|
| 25,000
| 95,000 |
0 | 95,000 |
95,000 |
A principal residence may also be eligible for the rollover and capital gains exemption if it is used principally in the farming business as described below.16
A residence owned by a corporation
is considered to be used principally for farming business if more than 50 per
cent of its use is to accommodate persons, or their dependants, actively employed
in the farming business. Furthermore, the residence must be provided to these
persons in their capacity as employees rather than as shareholders, and the residence
must be part of the business operation in that it provides accommodation for employees
whose services may be required at virtually any time by virtue of the nature of
the farming operations.
Obtain
professional advise if an option being considered is to maintain a life interest
in the farm house and transfer the remainder interest in that house to a child.
This strategy can have unintended consequences for the child who receives the
remainder interest.
On
the death of the parent the child will have to report in their income the accrued
capital gain that has occurred since their received the remainder interest. However
they will not have the benefit of the principal residence exemption since the
parents' house is not a principal residence to the child. This could be a significant
amount if 10 or 15 years have passed.
The tax rules for buying and selling quota are complex. What
follows is a review of how tax is calculated on the sale of quota, followed by
a discussion of the implications of a transfer within the family.
Quota
is a type of property called eligible capital property. When quota is purchased
three quarters (75 per cent) it is added to an account called the cumulative eligible
capital account or CEC account. This account is used to determine the annual allowance
for depreciation and to keep track of the quota that you buy and sell.
Quota
is depreciable at a rate of 7 per cent annually. The other one quarter of your
quota purchase is non-depreciable. If you bought quota worth $100,000, $75,000
(75 per cent) would be added to your cumulative eligible capital account, and
depreciated at a rate of 7 per cent per year, on a declining basis.
The sale of quota can generate two types of taxable income:
Recapture
on quota sales is similar to that of buildings, machinery and equipment. Recapture
occurs when the cumulative eligible capital account falls below zero; a portion
of the sale is recaptured and added to your income.
If the quota has appreciated, the increase in value can be reported in as either: (1) business income that is eligible for the capital gain exemption and as such is not subject to Alternate Minimum Tax (AMT); or (2) an election can be filed that deems the increase in the value of quota to be a capital gain similar to that on land or other non-depreciable capital property.17 The use of the election results in the following:
The election can only be used where there is a recognized gains and not losses. A calculation can determine if the election would be advantageous or not. Table 6 shows an example of a quota sale.
Table 6. Example of Quota Sale
| Information needed for the Calculation | |
| 1971 value | $20,000 |
| CEC account balance | $30,000 |
| Depreciation | |
|
Pre 1988 | $8,000 |
| Post 1988 |
$12,000 |
| Calculation | |
| Gross Sale Value | $350,000 |
| Deduct 1971 value ($20,000) |
$330,000 |
| Taxable portion (75%) | $247,500 |
| Deduct CEC ($30,000) | $217,500 |
| Less Recapture (total depreciation) |
$20,000 |
| Subtotal | $197,500 |
| Less 50% of pre-1988 depreciation | $4,000 |
| = $193,500 | |
| Inclusion Rate Adjustment1 2/3 adjustment results in additional farming income of: |
$129,000 |
| Total Income to Report | $149,000 |
1Quota sold in Fiscal Period Ending after Oct. 18, 2000 the inclusion rate is 50%, down from 75%, which means an adjustment of 2/3
In the example shown in Table 6, $20,000 of recapture is added to the farm income, plus the farming income as a result of the increase in the value of the quota.
The $4,000 pre-1988 depreciation adjustment occurs because in 1988, the capital gains inclusion rate was raised to 75 per cent from 50 per cent. Eligible Capital Property accounts were adjusted by 50 per cent to account for the change in the amount of quota that was now eligible to be depreciated.
Depreciation taken before 1988 however, was not recalculated, so an adjustment is required at the time of sale to reduce the income from the quota sale by 1/2 the pre-1988 depreciation. This is depreciation that is allowed under the post 1988 rules. In this example, the depreciation taken before 1988 is $8,000, so the adjustment is $4,000, which is subtracted from the farming income from the quota sale.
Quota can be transferred to a child on a completely
tax deferred basis or at any price up to FMV. The tax deferred price is based
on the following formula (4/3 CEC) + 1971 Value, where the CEC is the cumulative
eligible capital account and the 1971 value is the FMV quota holdings as of Dec
31st 1971. This amount would represent the highest price that would trigger no
income. A sale between this value and FMV would trigger some gain and possibly
recapture.
On the child's side there are potential reductions to the amount of the quota that can be added to the CEC and thus available for depreciation. These are
These deductions
are only relevant for determining the amounts allowed for additions to the cumulative
eligible capital account. They do not affect the cost used for determining future
capital gains.
Table 7 illustrates the results of some alternative
family sale prices. The examples assume that all quota was purchased after 1971
and thus the 1971 value deduction is zero. The FMV is $600,000. The current CEC
balance is $50,000 and $40,000 of depreciation has previously been taken, one
half before 1988 and one half after 1987. The parent claims a capital gain exemption.
There is no Alternative Minimum Tax calculation on quota if the election
described above has not been taken.
On death
there is no opportunity to elect out of the rollover provisions. 18
While this means that the transfer takes place on a tax-deferred basis, it also
means that on the final tax return the quota value cannot be bumped up to create
a capital gain and utilize the parents' capital gain exemption.
A rollover of quota is allowed to any beneficiary, not just children. The quota is deemed to transfer at four-thirds (4/3) of the undepreciated balance of the cumulative eligible capital account (CEC). This results in no income to the deceased person with the beneficiary taking the deceased person's place for future tax calculations.
Table 7. Alternative Transfer Prices for Quota (Post 1971)
| Various Family Sale Prices ($) | Deemed Proceeds ($) | 3/4 Deemed Proceeds ($) | (Deemed Proceeds Less CEC) ($) | Re-capture ($) | Farming Income Eligible for Capital Gain Exemption ($) | Deemed Cost to Child ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600,000 |
600,000 | 450,000 |
400,000 | 40,000 |
233,3331 | 133,3342 |
| 300,000 |
300,000 | 225,000 |
175,000 | 40,000 |
83,333 | 133,334 |
| 0 |
66,666 | 50,000 |
0 | 0 |
0 | 66,666 |
1
Deemed taxable capital gain = $400,000 - ($40,000 recapture) - (1/2 of $20,000
pre 88 depreciation) = $350,000. Then use a 2/3 adjustment for the 50% inclusion
rate, which equals $233,333.
2 If the parent uses the capital gains
exemption the child's tax cost is reduced by 2 times the taxable gain. In the
first example this would be 2 $233,333 = $466,666. This would reduce the child's
cost from $600,000 to $133,334 (600,000 - 466,666).
Table 8. Alternative Transfer Price for Land
| Today's FMV ($) | Various Family Sale Prices ($) | ACB ($) | Deemed Proceeds to the Parent(s) & cost to the child ($) | Capital Gain ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600,000 |
600,000 | 100,000 |
600,000 | 500,000 |
| 600,000 |
300,000 | 100,000 |
300,000 | 200,000 |
| 600,000 |
100,000 | 100,000 |
100,000 | 0 |
| 600,000 |
0 | 100,000 |
100,000 | 0 |
Table 9. Transfer of Partnership Interest or Corporation Shares
FMV ($) ACB ($) Various Sale Prices to Child ($) Deemed Proceeds and Cost ($) Capital Gain ($) 800,000 200,000 800,000 800,000 600,000 800,000 200,000 400,000 400,000 200,000 800,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 0 800,000 200,000 100,000 200,000 0
Farmland can be transferred
at any value between ACB and FMV, both before and after death. Because land usually
appreciates in value parents often want to use their $750,000 capital gain exemption
on the transfer. This strategy also benefits the child by giving them a higher
ACB from which future capital gains are calculated.
In order to trigger
a capital gain a sale must occur. Since children often cannot afford the full
FMV, one option is for the parent to sell the property at the FMV and hold a mortgage
or note on the property. On death the outstanding debt is forgiven in the will.
Forgiveness of debt outside of the will can have negative tax consequences and
should be avoided.
Table 8 illustrates the results of different family
sale prices.
On death farmland can be transferred
on a rollover basis and all tax deferred, or at any price up to FMV. If the deceased
parent has any capital gains exemption available, the transfer can take place
at any value between the ACB and FMV in order to incur some capital gain and provide
the child with a higher ACB. The alternative minimum tax (AMT) does not apply
in the year of death.
Land transfer tax
is a tax levied by Ontario on the transfer of land that includes any buildings.
Land transfer tax is normally based on the amount paid for the land, in addition
to the amount remaining on any mortgage or debt assumed as part of the arrangement
to buy the land.
The tax is levied on the consideration received and therefore
gifts of land are not taxable. The tax rate is graduated, based on the transfer
value. The example in Table 10 shows that the land transfer tax on a property
transferred for $800,000 would be $10,475.
Table 10. Land Transfer Tax on Land (Transfer Value = ,000)
Value Ranges
($) Tax Rate (%) Taxable
Amount
($) Tax
($) Tax on the first 55,000 0.5 55,000 275 55,000 to 250,000 1.0 195,000 1,950 Tax above 250,000 1.5 550,000 8,250 Land Transfer Tax 10,475
Several exemptions from the land transfer tax are allowed on the transfer of farmed land to related individuals. To qualify the land must be used predominantly in farming by the individual or the related individuals prior to the transfer. The land must also be farmed by those family members after the transfer.19 The exemptions are:
There are circumstances where the exemption will not apply because the specific requirements for exemption have not been met. The exemption will not apply where:
The Income Tax Act also
provides for the deferral of tax on the transfer of an interest in a family farm
partnership and shares in a family farm corporation. Both of these structures
are defined in the Act.20 In order for the rollover provisions to apply
the partnership or corporation must meet the specific requirements outlined in
the Act. These are complex; contact your tax advisor well in advance of any planned
transfer since adjustments can be made to bring a partnership or corporation in
line with the definitions (which are a requirement for the rollover treatment),
but this must be done in advance of any transfer.
Like land, an interest
in a family farm partnership and shares in a family farm corporation can be transferred
at any value between ACB and FMV. This can occur either before or after death.
Any capital gain generated can be offset by any available capital gains exemption.
Table 9 illustrates the results of alternative transfer prices.
When the capital gain exemption is available it can be beneficial
to sell an interest or shares at close to FMV to take advantage
of the capital gains exemption and have a higher ACB for the child.
This higher ACB would only be an advantage if the child sold the
shares and not the individual assets. The alternative minimum tax
may be a factor in some cases. For more information on partnerships
and corporations see OMAFRA factsheets Farm Corporations, Order
No. 01-057 and Farm Partnerships, Order No. 11-019.
On death an interest
in a family farm partnership and shares in a family farm corporation can be transferred
at any value between ACB and FMV. The legal representative of the deceased may
elect between the ACB and FMV in order to incur some gains and provide the child
with a higher ACB at no tax cost to the estate if the $750,000 exemption remains.
The alternative minimum tax (AMT) does not apply in the year of death.
From the above discussion, it is clear various values can be used depending on the needs and desires of the family. Capital gains can be deferred or triggered, recapture deferred or the farm business transferred at a price the child can afford. While there is no single strategy, there are general approaches.
A common strategy might be:
The highest transfer
price that allows maximum deferrals is the combination of land at ACB, quota at
(4/3 CEC) - 1971 Value, Part XI assets at UCC, Part XVII assets at FMV and personal
residence at FMV.
Tables 11 and 12 outline two transfer
scenarios. Table 11 show a transfer at FMV with the use of the $750,000 capital
gains exemption and no deferral of inventory income. Table 12 shows a transfer
that minimizes tax and uses almost all the capital gains exemption by setting
the price of the land at FMV. The quota price was not increased because of the
fact that recapture would be generated. Of course a price between these scenarios
could be chosen but taxable income would be generated.
Table 11. Transfer at Fair Market Value (FMV)
| Assets | ACB ($) | UCC or CEC1 ($) | Transfer Value at FMV ($) | Capital Gain ($) |
Recapture and ($) |
Taxable Capital ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Land |
200,000 | -- |
900,000 | 700,000 |
| 350,000 |
| Quota2 | -- |
100,000 | 700,000 |
375,0002 | 50,000 |
250,000 |
| Buildings (Pt.XI) | 140,000 |
100,000 | 200,000 |
60,000 | 40,000 |
30,000 |
| Machinery (Pt.XI) | 100,000 |
50,000 | 150,000 |
50,000 | 50,000 |
25,000 |
| Inventory |
-- | -- |
200,000 | -- |
200,000 | -- |
| House |
60,000 | -- |
150,000 | 90,000 |
-- | -- |
| Total | |
| 2,300,000 |
1,275,000 | 340,000 |
655,000 |
| Capital Gains Exemption Available | 750,000 | Capital Gains Deduction (deduct from TCG) | 375,000 | |||
| Total Taxable Capital Gains |
280,000 | |||||
| Total
Income on which tax paid (340k +280K) |
620,000 | |||||
1
UCC is the undepreciated capital cost and CEC is the cumulative eligible capital.
2The calculation for the deemed taxable capital gain on quota
is more complex than just taking 50% of the increase in value, as is the case
with an asset such as land. The calculation for quota is based on $50,000 post
1988 depreciation, 1971 value of $0, and a CEC of $100,000.
Table 12. Transfer at Tax Cost, Land at Fair Market Value, Note for Inventory to Defer Income
| Assets |
ACB ($) | (UCC or CEC) ($) | Transfer Value \($) | Capital Gain ($) | Recapture and
($) | Taxable Capital ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Land |
200,000 | -- |
900,000 | 700,000 |
| 350,000 |
| Quota | -- |
100,000 | 133,333 |
-- | -- |
-- |
| Buildings (Pt.XI) | 140,000 |
100,000 | 100,000 |
-- | -- |
-- |
| Machinery (Pt.XI) | 100,000 |
50,000 | 50,000 |
-- | -- |
-- |
| Inventory |
-- | -- |
Promissory note | -- |
-- | -- |
| House | 60,000 |
-- | 150,000 |
90,000 | -- |
-- |
| Total |
| |
1,333,333 | 790,000 |
-- | 350,000 |
| Capital Gains Exemption Available |
750,000 | Capital Gains Deduction
(deduct from TCG) | 375,000 | |||
| Total Taxable Capital Gains |
- | |||||
| Total Income on which tax paid | - | |||||
| Total tax payable based on highest marginal rate of 46.41 % | - | |||||
A
reserve allows for a deferral in reporting either business income or taxable capital
gains. It is allowed when all or part of the proceeds of the sale are not payable
until after the end of the year in which the property is sold. A reserve is also
available for quota, provided an election under section 14(1.01) of the Act is
made.
Usually a mortgage or a note is sufficient evidence that an amount
remains outstanding. However, a promissory note without restrictions as to when
payment can be demanded represents "absolute payment" of the debt and
in such a case, a reserve will not be allowed. The note should contain restrictions,
such as payable 366 days after demand, to ensure that a reserve can be used.
A five-year reserve is allowed on dispositions to unrelated parties. A minimum of at least 20 per cent of the gain must be brought into income each year.
A 10-year reserve is allowed on the disposition of land, depreciable property or a share in a family farm corporation or an interest in a family farm partnership to a child. Accordingly, a minimum of 10 per cent of the gain must be brought into income each year. 21
A reserve is not available to an individual who transfers property to a corporation that they control or did control or to a partnership in which they hold a majority interest.22 A reserve is not available in the year of death.23
There are several circumstances where a reserve might be useful. Firstly, if a large capital gain has been triggered, alternative minimum tax (AMT) may be payable even though the capital gains exemption is used. The use of a reserve could spread the gain over a number of years, reducing the possibility of paying AMT. As the capital gain is removed from the reserve, the capital gains exemption can be used.
The second circumstance is where the capital gains exemption is not available or has been fully used. Spreading the taxable capital gain over a number of taxation years may prevent income levels from reaching the higher tax brackets. It may also reduce the claw back of benefits and the possible application of the AMT.
The amount available for a reserve is the lesser of two amounts:
Forgiving the debt of a child while alive by
way of a gift that reduces a note or mortgage, or any other indebtedness can result
in negative tax consequences for the recipient. The results could include reductions
in farm losses, net capital losses and restricted farm losses. If none of these
are available for reduction then the ACB of the capital asset is reduced or 50
per cent of the forgiven amount can be included in the income of the debtor. If
a parent wants to gift money to a child while they are alive they should consult
with their accountant about the best way to do that. Simply writing off of debt
or an exchange of cheques should be avoided.
Forgiveness of debt in a will (by bequest) on the other hand does not have any of the negative tax consequences mentioned above. For example a parent might sell a piece of property to a child at FMV to trigger a capital gain which is offset by their capital gains exemption. The child may pay a portion of the debt while his parents remain alive and then the remaining amount is forgiven in the parent's will.
Alternative Minimum Tax 25(AMT) is a tax on dividends from Canadian corporations and capital gains. The AMT calculation is an alternative calculation of taxable income that includes the non-taxable part of the capital gain. The calculation shown in Table 13 uses the approach outlined in the Act, which includes a four-fifths (80 per cent) downward adjustment of the capital gain followed by the deduction of the taxable capital gain. A simplified approach is to include 30 per cent for the entire gain (30 per cent $500,000 = $150,000).
The AMT allows an exemption of $40,000, which means that the AMT has no effect until a gain of more than $133,333 is realized (the $133,333 times 4/5 equals $106,666, which equals a taxable capital gain of $66,666 (133,000 0.5) which when subtracted leaves $40,000, which is the amount of the exemption).
This amount can also be higher when the personal credits are used in the calculation. This alternative calculation is then compared to the regular tax calculation and, if it is higher, the additional amount is payable.
Any minimum tax paid can be carried forward up to seven years, and used as a credit against tax payable in those years.
Ontario also has an AMT, which is 40.33 per cent of the basic federal tax calculated under the AMT calculation.
Table 13. Alternative Minimum Tax Calculation
| Regular Tax Calculation ($) | Minimum Tax Calculation ($) | |
|---|---|---|
| Capital gain |
750,000 | |
| Taxable capital gain - 50% |
375,000 | |
| Amount of gain for AMT (0.80 750,000) |
| 600,0001 |
| Income included after capital gains exemption used | 0 | |
| Untaxed capital gain (600,000 - 375,000) |
0 | 225,000 |
| Plus farm income | 50,000 |
50,000 |
| Minus minimum tax exemption | |
40,000 |
| Approx. taxable income | 47,951 |
235,000 |
| Approx. federal tax payable2 | 6,150 |
33,195 |
| Approx. provincial tax payable3 | 2,621 |
18,382 |
| Total federal and provincial tax4 | 8,771 |
51,577 |
| Additional minimum tax payable | |
42,806 |
1
The calculation for the alternative minimum tax adjusts the capital gain downward
by multiplying the gain by 0.80. This is done because of the capital gain inclusion
rate change from 75% to 50%. (30% of the total gain of 750k can be used to arrive
at the untaxed capital gain upon which the AMT is applied)
2To
calculate the regular tax payable, the 2008 federal tax rates were used. Federal
tax rates are 15% on the first $37,885 and 22% on income between $37,886 and $75,769.
A flat rate of 15% is used to calculate the federal minimum tax payable.
3To calculate the regular taxes payable 2008 provincial tax rates were
used. Provincial tax rates are 6.05% on the first $36,020 and 9.15% on income
between $36,021 and $72,041. Ontario surtaxes of $4,854 were added. A flat tax
rate of 40.33% of the federal minimum tax less the federal tax of $6,150 is used
to calculate the provincial minimum tax ((33,195-6,150) 40.33%). This is then
added to the regular provincial tax to obtain the total for the minimum tax calculation.
4This tax calculation included federal and provincial basic personal
tax credits and the CPP tax credit. CPP payments and the Ontario health tax were
not included.
This Factsheet is intended as general information and not as specific advice concerning individual situations. Although it outlines some of the legal and tax considerations of transferring farm assets, it should not be considered as either an interpretation or complete coverage of the Income Tax Act or the various laws affecting family transfers. The Government of Ontario assumes no responsibility towards persons using it as such.
Discuss all asset sales or transfers with your accountant
and lawyer before they are undertaken.
This Factsheet was written by Rob Gamble, BSc. (Agr), MTax, Finance and Business Structures, Program Lead, Agriculture and Rural Division, OMAFRA, Guelph. It was produced in part from a paper written by Ralph Winslade formerly with OMAFRA. The author would also like to thank Ed Mitukiewicz, C.A. of Collins Barrow, Chartered Accountants, Elora Ontario for his review of this Factsheet.