Mid-Summer Reviews: When to Collect OAS and CPP

Did you know that 61% of Canadians are afraid of running out of money during retirement? According to a new CPP Investments survey, that fear is widespread. Yet surprisingly few people understand even the basics of public pension planning. For example, Canadians are not obliged to begin OAS or CPP at age 65. By delaying, they can significantly boost after-tax income and improve retirement security.

More than 20% of Canadians are or have considered adopting a child in Canada, but 75% of these potential parents are concerned about the cost.

A recent decision from the Saskatchewan Court of Queen’s Bench held that RRSP funds payable to a named beneficiary do not form part of the testator’s (deceased will maker’s) estate.

The interest-free loans Canadians give to their governments keeps rising – it’s up from $1646 in the 2012 tax filing year to $1655 in 2013 – that’s $138 a month that could be going into TFSAs or RRSPs instead.

In order to make a valid will in any province in Canada, the testator (or will maker) must have a sound dispositive mind or testamentary capacity.

Is the gain tax exempt? Solve this case study: Phil and Sylvia have owned their home in the city for 20 years and their cottage at the lake for 10 years in that 20-year period...

The start of the school year is only a short month away, and now is a great time to think about the tax benefits of post-secondary studies in order to be organized come year-end.