Friday, February 19, 2016
Queen's University business professor John-Kurt Pliniussen is available to comment on tax policy implications of the growing "sharing economy," including peer-to-peer based service companies such as Uber and Airbnb.
Today, the Government of Ontario and Airbnb announced a pilot project to educate the services' hosts on their responsibilities with regards to taxation, as well as homeowners' and consumers' rights and responsibilities when offering or booking online accommodations. As part of the pilot project, Airbnb will educate its hosts through an email notification during tax season to remind them of their tax obligations.
"All sharing economy entrepreneurs need to declare their legitimate “extra income” or face Canada Revenue Agency penalties if caught," says Dr. Pliniussen. "This will make it possible for sharing economy entrepreneurs to claim legitimate expenses. It will also help StatsCan track the national economic impact this new business model is having on the Canadian economy."
Dr. Pliniussen is available for interviews either by telephone or Skype.
To arrange an interview, please contact communications officer Chris Armes 613-533-6000 ext. 77513 or chris.armes@queensu.ca at Queen’s University News and Media Services Department in Kingston, Ont., Canada.
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