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How to Use a Spousal RRSP to Save Thousands in Retirement (2026 Guide)

  Published: April 2026 | Reading time: 10 min | Category: Retirement, Tax Savings, Personal Finance Most Canadian couples are leaving thousands of dollars on the table every single year by not using a spousal RRSP. It's one of the most powerful — and most underused — income-splitting strategies available to Canadians, and it's completely legal, fully endorsed by CRA, and available to almost every married or common-law couple in the country. If one spouse earns significantly more than the other, a spousal RRSP can save your household $5,000–$15,000 or more in lifetime taxes. This guide explains exactly how it works, who benefits most, and the rules you need to know to do it correctly. What Is a Spousal RRSP? A spousal RRSP is a Registered Retirement Savings Plan where one spouse (the contributor ) makes contributions, but the account is owned and will eventually be withdrawn by the other spouse (the annuitant ). The key mechanics: The contributing spouse gets the ...

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U.S. Treasury Secretary Warns of Approaching Debt Ceiling Crisis


Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has issued a stark warning that the United States could hit its debt ceiling as early as mid-January. In a letter to congressional leaders, Yellen stated that her agency would need to begin taking "extraordinary measures" to prevent the nation from breaching the debt limit. These measures are special accounting maneuvers intended to keep the government operating without defaulting on its obligations.

Yellen emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging Congress to act swiftly to protect the full faith and credit of the United States. The debt ceiling, which had been suspended until January 1, 2025, is expected to be reinstated on January 2, 2025. However, due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments, the Treasury does not expect to need to take extraordinary measures until January 14 to January 23.

The federal debt currently stands at approximately $36 trillion, a figure that has grown significantly over the years under both Republican and Democratic administrations. The spike in inflation following the COVID-19 pandemic has further increased government borrowing costs, making the situation even more critical.

Yellen's warning comes after President Joe Biden signed a bill last week that averted a government shutdown but did not address the debt ceiling issue. The bill was passed only after intense debate among Republicans over how to handle President-elect Donald Trump's demand to raise or suspend the debt limit.

As the new year approaches, the nation's fiscal health hangs in the balance, with lawmakers facing a critical decision on how to address the impending debt ceiling crisis.




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