This paper provides a review of Alberta case law dealing with loans and gifts between close relatives. It highlights decisions in which funds advanced from a family member were considered by the court to be a loan, and other court decisions in which the funds were found to be a gift. It also discusses what happens after a gift has been given from a family member to one spouse, and how to determine the value of the exemption.

This paper is part of a collection presented at LESA’s Matrimonial Property 2017 program held in Edmonton on February 14, 2017 and in Calgary on February 22, 2017.