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The 4% Rule Just Dropped to 3.9% — But Your RRIF Doesn't Care

  Published August 5, 2026 Morningstar's newest research says retirees can safely start withdrawing 3.9% a year. Ottawa's RRIF rules don't ask what's "safe" — they just tell you how much to take out, whether the math agrees or not. For years, the shortcut retirees leaned on was simple: take out 4% of your portfolio in your first year of retirement, bump it up with inflation every year after, and your savings should last three decades. Morningstar's 2026 State of Retirement Income report just trimmed that number to 3.9%. On its own, that's a small adjustment. On a $500,000 portfolio, it's the difference between withdrawing $19,500 or $20,000 in year one. But for Canadians, the number that actually controls the withdrawal isn't Morningstar's — it's the Canada Revenue Agency's. And once your RRSP becomes a Registered Retirement Income Fund, the CRA's required minimum can blow right past whatever a "safe" withdrawal rate i...

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What’s New in 2024 Tax Filing: Key Changes and Tips

 

As the tax season kicks off, Canadians are gearing up to file their 2023 income taxes. Whether you’re a seasoned filer or a first-timer, here’s what you need to know for the 2024 tax-filing season:

Important Dates

  • February 19, 2024: The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) opens its portal for online tax filing. If you prefer paper filing, expect your income tax package in the mail by this date.
  • April 30, 2024: This is the deadline for most Canadians to file their tax return. Filing on time ensures timely processing of refunds, benefits, and credits.
  • June 15, 2024: Self-employed individuals (and their spouses or common-law partners) have until this date to file their returns. If you owe money to the CRA, remember to pay by April 30, 2024, to avoid interest.

What’s New?

  1. Digital Disability Tax Credit (DTC) Application Form:

    • The CRA now offers a fully digital application process for the DTC. Persons with disabilities and their medical practitioners can complete Part A of the application form online in My Account or by phone. No more printing and manual completion!
    • The applicant’s portion of the form is prepopulated with information already on file at the CRA. Once done, applicants receive a reference number for their medical practitioner to complete Part B.
  2. Changes to the T1 Notice of Assessment:

    • The T1 notice of assessment and notice of reassessment now provide clearer and more comprehensive information.
    • If you’re expecting a refund and haven’t signed up for direct deposit, you’ll receive a paper T1 notice of assessment and a separate cheque.

Remember, timely filing ensures you receive the benefit and credit payments you’re entitled to. 


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