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Best Cashback Credit Cards in Canada 2026 — Complete Guide

  Published: April 2026 | Reading time: 12 min | Category: Credit Cards, Personal Finance, Money Saving Tips If you're not using a cashback credit card in Canada, you're leaving real money on the table every single month. The best cashback cards in 2026 are paying 2%, 3%, even 4% back on everyday purchases like groceries and gas — expenses you're making anyway. This guide ranks the best cashback credit cards available to Canadians right now, breaks down exactly who each card is best for, and shows you how to stack cards for maximum returns. Why Cashback Cards Beat Points Cards for Most Canadians Travel points cards get all the attention, but cashback is simpler, more flexible, and often more valuable for the average Canadian household. Here's why: No blackout dates, no expiry, no restrictions — cash goes straight to your statement or bank account Easy to calculate value — 2% back on $1,000 = exactly $20. No guessing at "point values" Works for ...

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How to make your RRIF last longer and avoid tax traps

 

If you are a senior who has a registered retirement income fund (RRIF), you may be worried about outliving your savings or paying too much tax on your withdrawals. Fortunately, there are some strategies you can use to make your RRIF more efficient and flexible.

A RRIF is a tax-deferred account that you must convert your RRSP into by the end of the year you turn 71. You have to withdraw a minimum amount from your RRIF every year, based on your age or your spouse’s age. The minimum amount increases as you get older, and it is fully taxable as income.

One way to reduce your tax bill and preserve your RRIF is to withdraw less than the minimum amount. You can do this by electing to use your younger spouse’s age to calculate the minimum amount, which will lower the percentage you have to withdraw. You can also split up to 50% of your RRIF income with your spouse if they are in a lower tax bracket.

Another way to make your RRIF last longer is to invest it wisely. You can choose from a variety of investments, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and GICs, to suit your risk tolerance and income needs. You can also diversify your portfolio across different asset classes, sectors, and geographies to reduce volatility and enhance returns.

A third way to optimize your RRIF is to plan ahead for your estate. You can name your spouse as the beneficiary of your RRIF, which will allow them to continue receiving the income or transfer it to their own RRIF tax-free. You can also name your children or grandchildren as beneficiaries, but they will have to pay tax on the fair market value of the RRIF as a lump sum. Alternatively, you can donate your RRIF to a charity of your choice, which will generate a tax credit for your estate.

By following these tips, you can make your RRIF more flexible, tax-efficient, and long-lasting. You can also consult a financial planner or a tax professional to help you tailor your RRIF to your specific situation and goals.

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