RRSP Contributions: What Are They and What Are the Benefits?

It’s that time of year again. Time to start thinking about your RRSP contributions. But what are RRSP contributions, and more importantly, what are the benefits? In this article, we will explore exactly that – the ins and outs of RRSP contributions, and why they matter. So, whether you’re a first-time contributor or a seasoned veteran, read on for everything you need to know about RRSPs! 

What Are RRSP Contributions?  

RRSP contributions are funds that you contribute to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). This plan is designed to help save for retirement, offering tax breaks along the way.  

There are two types of RRSP contributions: regular and spousal. Regular contributions are those made by the account holder themselves, while spousal contributions are made by the spouse or common-law partner of the account holder. Both types offer tax breaks – regular contributions offer a larger break than spousal – so it’s important to understand which type you qualify for before making your contribution.  

It’s also important to note that you can only contribute to an RRSP until you turn 71. After that, the money in your RRSP must be withdrawn or transferred to a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF). 

What Are the Benefits of Making RRSP Contributions?  

Now that we know what RRSP contributions are, let’s look at the benefits. 

1. Tax Savings  

One of the biggest benefits of making RRSP contributions is the potential for tax savings. When you contribute to an RRSP, you can deduct that amount from your taxable income. This lowers the amount of taxes you owe, which can mean a refund come tax time.  

2. Earnings Grow Tax-Free  

While your money is in an RRSP, it can grow through investment earnings like interest, dividends, and capital gains. And the best part? That growth is tax-free. So not only do you get a tax break when you contribute to an RRSP, but you also get a break on the earnings your contributions generate.  

3. Access to Your Money  

Even though RRSPs are designed for retirement savings, you can still access your money if you need to. There are a few different ways to do this, including through RRSP loans and withdrawals. However, there may be tax implications depending on how you access your funds, so it’s important to speak with a financial advisor before doing so.  

Making RRSP contributions is a great way to save for retirement and take advantage of tax breaks along the way. But it’s important to understand how they work before contributing. We hope this article has given you a better understanding of RRSPs and why they matter. 

Don’t forget that Kazana Mutual Fund Trust is an eligible RRSP investment! 

Previous
Previous

What Is Compounding Interest and Why Should You Care?

Next
Next

The Top Five Retirement Secrets That You Aren’t Supposed to Know About