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Key Things to Consider Before Converting Your RRSP to a RRIF
While your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) helped you save for retirement, a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) will allow you to enjoy and use those savings. You can convert your RRSP to a RRIF at any time, but you have to do it by December 31 of the year you turn 71. Here’s what to consider if you’re thinking about converting before then :
RRIF Withdrawals Can Affect Your Taxes and Government Benefits
Once you convert to a RRIF, you’ll have to withdraw a minimum amount from it each year as determined by federal regulations (even if it’s more than you need).
Because RRIF withdrawals are considered taxable income, taking money out too early or more than you need could put you in a higher tax bracket and leave you with a larger tax bill. Withdrawals could also potentially reduce certain government benefits, like Old Age Security (OAS).
An RBC Financial Planner can help you determine if your tax bill or benefits will be affected—or if it’s the right time to convert.
Use the RRIF Calculator to estimate your minimum withdrawal.
You Can Contribute to Your RRSP Until Age 71
If you’re still earning an income and wish to continue saving, keep in mind that you can’t make contributions to a RRIF. However, you can keep putting money into your RRSP right up until December 31 of the year you turn 71. After age 71, you can only contribute to an RRSP if it’s in your spouse’s name, your spouse is under age 71, and you have remaining RRSP contribution room.
Also, remember that money you withdraw from your RRIF can no longer grow tax-deferred.
Decide Whether You Need the Income Now
If you’re not sure if you need the income from a RRIF right now, consider making a list of your regular monthly expenses and review them against your potential income sources. If you don’t need the extra income now, it may be a good idea to wait to convert. That way, you’ll minimize the impact on your taxes and other payments.
Estimate your cash flow with our Retirement Budget Calculator.
Consider Other Tax-Saving Strategies
- You may be able to reduce the taxes you pay from your pension income (such as from a RRIF) by splitting up to 50% of your income with your spouse.
- If your spouse or partner is younger than you, you can base your RRIF withdrawal amount on his or her age to lower your minimum payment and enjoy tax-deferred growth on your investments for longer.
- If you do convert your RRSP to a RRIF and you don’t need the entire amount from your minimum withdrawals, you may be able to contribute the extra money to a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)—assuming you have contribution room left.
- You can hold off on taking money from your RRIF until the end of the year you set up the account.
What to Check out Next
RRIF Tips and Hints
How to Create a Steady Income in Retirement
Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) Overview
Let’s Start the Conversation
This document is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal,
financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation.
Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not
be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the
authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice,
opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.
Financial planning services and investment advice are provided by Royal Mutual Funds Inc. (RMFI). RMFI, RBC Global Asset Management Inc., Royal Bank of Canada, Royal Trust Corporation of Canada and The Royal Trust Company are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. RMFI is licensed as a financial services firm in the province of Quebec.
Financial planning services and investment advice are provided by Royal Mutual Funds Inc. (RMFI). RMFI, RBC Global Asset Management Inc., Royal Bank of Canada, Royal Trust Corporation of Canada and The Royal Trust Company are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. RMFI is licensed as a financial services firm in the province of Quebec.