Feb 11th event

Speaker:

Tara Benham and Alli Cheng
Doane Grant Thornton LLP

Tara Benham
National Tax Leader
Doane Grant Thornton LLP

As national tax leader at Doane Grant Thornton, Tara’s areas of focus span from complex tax analysis, planning and compliance, to financial analysis and forecasting.

Tara helps individuals and diverse organizations in numerous industries with complex business structuring, strategic planning, project management, business management, estate planning and change management. She’s helped clients navigate the full business cycle—from start-up and growth to turnaround situations. Tara has extensive experience working with Indigenous clients and communities across Western Canada on complex tax structures. She is a frequent speaker on indigenous tax issues at national and regional conferences and seminars. In addition, Tara co-authored two papers entitled Estate planning in the Indigenous context and Indigenous Taxation which were presented at the 2024 and 2022 BC Tax Conferences held by the Canadian Tax Foundation.

 

Alli Cheng
Senior Manager, Tax Services
Doane Grant Thornton LLP

Based out from Doane Grant Thornton’s Nanaimo office, Alli Cheng helps organizations across Western Canada thrive by understanding their unique needs and delivering appropriate solutions to tackle challenges and unlock opportunities. With a decade of Canadian taxation experience and completion of the CPA In-Depth tax program, she works with Indigenous organizations, owner-managed businesses, NPOs, and various charities to problem-solve complex issues and ease the burden of compliance and reporting. As a candidate of the Tax Estate Planning program through STEP Canada, Alli is broadening her skillset in the areas of trust and estate planning to help families plan for their future. Alli co-authored two papers entitled Estate planning in the Indigenous context and Indigenous Taxation which were presented at the 2024 and 2022 BC Tax Conferences held by the Canadian Tax Foundation.


Event Details

Estate planning for Indigenous individuals involves a delicate balance between cultural norms, legal frameworks, and the specific context of reserve land. Understanding the intricacies of wills and estate management within Indigenous communities, emphasizing the interplay between cultural practices and statutory requirements is essential. Key considerations include the Indian Act, land ownership, and the distinct challenges faced by on reserve and off-reserve members. Income tax considerations are also integral to estate planning. Whether an estate involves on-reserve or off-reserve assets, understanding the tax implications ensures that beneficiaries receive their rightful bequests while minimizing tax burdens. Indigenous estate planning is not merely a legal exercise; it is deeply rooted in cultural values, kinship ties, and ancestral connections. While provincial succession laws govern most estates, Indigenous people—particularly those residing on reserve land—face additional complexities. This paper examines the unique challenges and opportunities in crafting estate plans that honor both tradition and legal obligations. It sheds light on the intricate dance between income tax exemptions, cultural values, and estate management within Indigenous communities. It serves as a valuable resource for practitioners, policymakers, and anyone navigating the complexities of Indigenous estate planning.

Events Summary