Plain meaning
A loss that may arise when a capital property is disposed of for less than its adjusted cost base and related costs.
Also called
allowable capital loss
net capital loss
capital losses
Key points
- Capital Loss affects how individuals report income, claim relief, receive benefits, or plan savings and retirement decisions.
- Eligibility and amounts often depend on annual tax filing, family status, age, income, residence, or documented expenses.
- The concept can affect both tax payable and income-tested benefits, so the after-tax result may differ from the headline amount.
- Readers should treat the glossary entry as orientation; the actual result depends on the current rules and personal facts.
Why it comes up
Capital losses generally matter for offsetting taxable capital gains and tracking carryforward amounts. It can affect tax payable, benefit eligibility, after-tax income, or the timing of CRA-administered payments.