As a result of their deliberations committees may make recommendations which they include in their reports for the consideration of the House of Commons or the Government. Recommendations related to this study are listed below.

Recommendation 1

That the Government of Canada review the design of the Underused Housing Tax, including its exemptions and tax return. In considering whether any design changes are needed, the Government should consider the potential impacts on owners of residential properties in Canada and on the attainment of the policy objectives established for the Underused Housing Tax.

Recommendation 2

That the Government of Canada, as part of its efforts to maintain and enhance Canada’s trade and other relations with the United States, ensure that it promptly responds to any formal enquiries that the Government of the United States makes, including in relation to the Underused Housing Tax.

Recommendation 3

That the Government of Canada continue with, and enhance, its efforts to assist owners of residential properties in Canada who must file a tax return relating to the Underused Housing Tax. To that end, the Government should ensure that information regarding the Underused Housing Tax and its exemptions is clear and accessible, and that the tax return is as simple as possible.

Recommendation 4

That the Government of Canada take immediate steps to streamline the Canada Revenue Agency’s Underused Housing Tax Return and Election Form (UHT-2900 E) in order to assist Canadian residential property owners who must complete the form but who do not have to pay the Underused Housing Tax. These efforts should include, on the first page of the form, the addition of a “check box” that would allow Canadian tax filers to indicate whether they are exempt from the Underused Housing Tax. Moreover, the Government should ensure that the Canada Revenue Agency provides timely guidance to all Canadian residential property owners who may be affected by the Underused Housing Tax.