Achraf Houmani - Advisor, Sun Life

11/03/2026

As a business owner, there’s a lot to think about when it comes to your long-term success.

Have you considered:
• Protecting your income if something happens?
• Planning for retirement on your terms?
• Building a succession plan?
• Managing your investments strategically?

Fall is a great time to set goals for the future. Get in touch to start the conversation. https://bit.ly/4zihLyp

10/30/2026

What would happen to your family's finances if life took an unexpected turn?

Mortgage protection solutions can help provide financial support if you're diagnosed with a covered critical illness or pass away unexpectedly. The benefit can help support your family's needs, including your mortgage and other important expenses.

Let's talk about a solution that can help protect your family's future. https://bit.ly/4BBpo55

10/29/2026

Protecting your partnership: a two-step approach.

Building a life together means protecting it together. Here's our simple framework:
Step 1: Life Insurance for each partner
Step 2: Critical Illness Insurance for each partner

This flexible approach works whether you're just starting out or refining your existing protection. Together we can explore your unique needs and create a solution that fits your budget.

Ready to strengthen your protection? Let's talk!

10/28/2026

A lower corporate tax rate creates an opportunity, but not an automatic business strategy.

Ontario’s lower corporate income tax rate decreased from 3.2% to 2.2%, effective July 1, 2026.

Bill 97 received Royal Assent on April 24, so this change is enacted—not proposed. Eligibility rules still apply, and the reduction is prorated for taxation years that include July 1.

An Ottawa corporation reviewing its year-end forecast. The owner expects improved after-tax cash flow and immediately considers increasing personal withdrawals.

But other priorities may be more urgent: working capital, debt repayment, employee benefits, a group retirement plan, corporate investments or business-protection insurance.

The practical takeaway: ask your accountant to confirm whether your corporation’s income qualifies, calculate the prorated impact and review upcoming instalments. Then create a deliberate plan for any additional retained cash.

A lower rate may create flexibility. What matters is how that flexibility supports the company’s long-term goals.

If your business retains more cash this year, where should it go first?

10/27/2026

A critical illness can bring unexpected financial challenges. That's why comprehensive protection matters — for your family and peace of mind.

Life insurance can help protect your loved ones when you're gone. Critical illness insurance can provide a lump-sum benefit if you're diagnosed with one of 26 covered serious illnesses, helping protect your financial wellbeing while you focus on recovery.

For a limited time, you may be eligible for a 10% premium discount on Sun Life critical illness insurance for life when bundled with an eligible life insurance solution. * Get in touch before December 31, 2026, to see if this offer is right for you. https://bit.ly/3Uq0B3k

*Terms and conditions apply

10/26/2026

Your business can sell for millions, and still miss the business-sale exemption.

On March 26, 2026, Bill C-15 received Royal Assent. It raised the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption base to $1.25 million for eligible gains from qualifying small-business shares, with indexation resuming in 2026.

A business owner preparing to sell in three years. The company is profitable, but it also holds a growing investment portfolio.

The owner assumes incorporation is enough. It isn’t: the shares and corporation must satisfy detailed qualification tests.

Practical takeaway: well before an offer arrives, have your accountant and lawyer review the company’s assets, ownership history, valuation and proposed deal structure. Then coordinate the proceeds with your retirement, estate and insurance plans.

A higher exemption can support succession, but it cannot repair rushed planning after the sale agreement is signed.

If a buyer called tomorrow, would your shares be sale-ready?

10/23/2026

The holidays are just around the corner, and so are the expenses that come with them.

Set a budget before you shop. It'll help you enjoy the season without as much financial stress in January.

Need a bit of inspiration? Polish up on your budgeting skills here https://bit.ly/4zQ6Fkv

Do you live paycheque to paycheque? No money left over for savings? It’s probably time to make a budget.

10/22/2026

Job protection does not automatically replace a paycheque, or keep a business operating.

Ontario’s long-term illness leave took effect on June 19, 2025.

Eligible employees covered by the Employment Standards Act may take up to 27 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave within a 52-week period because of a certified serious medical condition.

An Ottawa company whose lead technician requires 20 weeks away for treatment.

The employee faces months without regular wages. Meanwhile, the business must serve clients, redistribute responsibilities and protect an important position.

Suddenly, two plans matter: the employee’s financial protection and the company’s continuity plan.

The practical takeaway: cross-train essential roles, document critical processes and review your leave procedures and group disability coverage.

Business owners should also ask a personal question: if illness prevented you from working, what would support your income, recovery costs and business obligations?

Critical illness or disability coverage may form part of that strategy, depending on individual needs and policy terms.

Is your business prepared for a key person’s extended medical absence?

10/21/2026

A 35-cent hourly change can reveal a much bigger compensation question.

Ontario’s general minimum wage increased from $17.60 to $17.95 on October 1, 2026.

This change is already in effect—not a proposal.

An Ottawa café with six employees earning minimum wage and working an average of 30 hours weekly.

The increase adds approximately $3,276 in annual base wages before additional employer payroll costs:

$0.35 × 30 hours × 52 weeks × 6 employees.

But the owner’s planning question goes beyond payroll.

Should pay ranges for experienced employees also change? Can the business maintain its health benefits or group retirement contributions? Do staffing, pricing and cash-flow forecasts still work?

The practical takeaway: update payroll, then complete a 12-month total-compensation review covering wages, statutory employer costs, overtime assumptions, benefits and retirement contributions.

Evaluate compensation as one strategy, but ensure every element remains sustainable during both busy and slower months.

How has the new minimum wage affected your hiring or compensation plans?

10/20/2026

Small Business Week celebrates entrepreneurs like you. Running your own business takes courage, dedication and vision.

Let’s chat about how I can support you with solutions designed for small business owners, from protecting your income to planning for growth.

Want to build a stronger foundation for your future. Reach out today.