In an April 26, 2016 Technical Interpretation, CRA opined that where an employer provides a payroll advance to an employee, the
amount is not generally considered to be a loan. A salary advance is a payment for salary, wages or commissions that an employee is
expected to earn in the performance of future services. These amounts are generally included in the employee’s income in the year the
advance is received.
If a repayment by the employee is required, a deduction is available in the tax year in which the repayment was made. The
deduction cannot exceed the advance that was previously included in the employee’s income from employment.
Action Item: When providing an advance to an employee, ensure that the employee clearly understands the tax implications.