Protecting Your Financial Well-Being Post-Divorce
Posted on:"After 38 years of marriage, I was blindsided when my husband asked me for a divorce," says Patricia, 61. "I didn't see it coming and was shocked at how fast and efficiently he left the life we had built together." Like many women of Patricia's generation, she had made the decision to stay home and raise their children while her husband worked. As a lawyer, he had provided well for his family.…
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TFSA Notices And Penalty Risks
Posted on:The latest Federal Budget included an administrative rule change1 that allows CRA to automatically send you notices electronically without your prior permission or registration. The risk, as noted in the recent case of a B.C. taxpayer, is this may lead to penalties for TFSA over contributions. It is your responsibility now to regularly check your CRA My Account site. Let me explain. This change…
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Getting Back to Basics
Posted on:Recessions, stock-market declines, housing market bubbles, joblessness and, most recently, a global pandemic have created a series of challenges for people trying to start, grow or maintain a retirement savings plan. Given this rollercoaster, it's natural to wonder if you're doing all you can to protect your retirement nest egg. Taking a “back to basics” approach can empower you and help keep…
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Be Careful with RRSP Beneficiary Designations
Posted on:When Margaret and James married in 2005, it was a second marriage for both of them. They had no children, so when they did their financial planning, their wills were clear that 100% of their estates would go to the other. Believing this was sufficient protection, they built a life and continued to grow their wealth. Sadly, Margaret's sudden passing in 2019 exposed a serious hole in their estate…
Read MoreHow to Pay Less Tax With Life Insurance
Posted on:Ray had thought of his life insurance purely as a protection plan. The anti-avoidance rules and general restriction of tax benefits applicable to most shelters prompted him to take a new look at his life insurance for tax deferral as well. A type of policy, called Universal Life, separates the cost of insurance and the 'savings' element of your premium. You know how much of it is being invested…
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