Converting an RRSP to a RRIF 2021
If you are nearing retirement, you may be starting to think about creating retirement income for yourself from your RRSPs. Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) are considered accumulation vehicles. This means they are used to save for your retirement in a tax efficient way. When the time comes to start using your hard-earned savings to fund your retirement, you may want to consider moving them to a payout vehicle called a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF).
What Happens If You Overcontribute to Your TFSA?
The amount deposited into a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) is subject to a yearly contribution limit. For 2020, and again in 2021, the annual limit has been set at $6,000. As of 2021 the lifetime maximum contribution has grown to $75,500.
If an over-contribution is made Canada Revenue Agency will levy penalties.
What to Consider When Drawing Down Your RRSP
If you have been a good saver and contributed religiously to your RRSP, you should be rewarded with a sizeable six or seven figure RRSP that would make your retirement that much more enjoyable. The only issue now is – how do you get the money out of the RRSP without paying more tax than you should? Typically, it is advised that investors leave their RRSPs alone for as long as possible to take advantage of the tax-free growth. While this can be true for many people, it is important to crunch the numbers before you retire to make sure this makes the most sense for your unique retirement situation. Many retirees, especially those with a high net worth, may find there could be a more efficient way to withdraw retirement income.
TFSA or RRSP? Take your pick 2021 Update
Whether you should invest in a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) or a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is a question that affects almost every investor. For most, the answer is “a bit of both.”
If you have a looming short or medium-term need (under five years), the untaxed TFSA withdrawals are likely the right choice. For longer term retirement needs, you’ll want to invest in an RRSP.
Essential Tax Numbers for 2019, 2020 and 2021
With a new year comes new tax numbers! Below is a quick reference of important tax numbers for three years, including 2021. CRA has utilized a 1% indexing (inflation) for those numbers subject to that condition.
The Saving Versus Mortgage Dilemma: How to Best Utilize
Investors often are conflicted on what to do with surplus cash. Your options for available cash usually fall into three categories: spending it, investing it, …
Creating and Maintaining an Estate Plan
While uncomfortable to think about, effectively planning ahead for when you are no longer here can save your loved ones a great deal of time, money, and emotional hardship. Estate planning can be complicated, but there are some basic “must-do’s” that should be regularly updated and reviewed. Below is a simple checklist for making sure your estate plan is up to date.
What to Know Before Taking Advantage of the Current Interest Rates
Current economic conditions have interest rates the lowest they have been in years. Central banks lower rates in time of economic downturn to stimulate the economy. This can make borrowing money seem very appealing. It is important to keep in mind when borrowing that interest rates will not stay low forever. Canadians need to prepare for an eventual period of rising rates, as it will impact mortgages, lines of credit, student loans, savings accounts, and investments. A survey conducted by IPSO in 2016 indicated that 48% of Canadians are just $200 away from not being able to meet their financial obligations. With the current low rate environment being as appealing to consumers as it is, it is possible to take on debt that may become a strain once interest rates rise again…whenever that may be.
6 Tips for More Successful Investing
There is no one and done way to invest, but there are a few tried and true principles that have served investors well over the years.
RESPs and Grandparents 2020 Update
The cost of university has risen sharply, and so has the importance of graduating with a desired and marketable set of skills and knowledge. Without a post-secondary education, employment and life opportunities are more limited now than ever before. Contributing to a grandchild’s education helps them and their parents, and helps you stay connected in a meaningful way.
