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Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE): Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how business owners can access tax-free gains on the sale of certain company shares under the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE).

The Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE) allows business owners to receive tax-free gains on the sale of specific business shares, up to a set lifetime limit.

Who it's for

This exemption is specifically for owners of shares in qualified small business corporations.

What you get

When you sell your shares, you can claim a deduction that makes the profit from that sale tax-free, provided the total amount stays within the established lifetime limit.

What it costs you

There is no direct monetary cost to apply for this, but it requires strict adherence to specific rules regarding what qualifies as a "qualified" status for your shares.

The catch to know

The rules are quite complex. To qualify, you must successfully pass specific asset tests and meet certain holding period requirements regarding how long you have owned the shares.

How to apply

  1. Verify that your shares meet the "qualified" status and all necessary asset tests.
  2. Ensure you have met the required holding period for your shares.
  3. Report the sale and claim the deduction on your tax return.
  4. Consult the official portal for more details: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/personal-income/line-12700-capital-gains/capital-gains-deduction.html