The Taxation of Signing Bonuses for Pro Athletes in Canada

In this episode, Kim G C Moody dives into a high-profile tax controversy involving NHL star John Tavares and the Canada Revenue Agency’s reassessment of his signing bonus from the Toronto Maple Leafs. If you've read recent media coverage on the issue, chances are you've seen more confusion than clarity, so I'm here to set the record straight.

We explore how Canadian tax law and the Canada-U.S. tax treaty actually work when it comes to non-resident athletes receiving signing bonuses, and why the CRA’s approach in this case is, in my view, deeply flawed. I also address the misinformation being circulated by media outlets and self-proclaimed social media experts, and explain why allegations of “tax games” are ridiculous.

This isn’t just about John Tavares—it’s about tax policy, legal interpretation, and Canada’s ability to remain an attractive destination for global talent. I close with a call for common sense: if Canada wants more tax revenue, it should negotiate smarter treaty terms; not litigate weak positions in court.

Happy listening!