Posts by Jason Heath
Understanding Your Company Pension Plan
The article “Understanding Your Company Pension Plan” was originally published on MoneySense on November 6, 2019. While the specifics can vary quite widely from plan to plan, a good place to start is with the basic differences between “defined benefit” and “defined contribution.” Some company pension plans are voluntary. Some are mandatory. Some have different…
Read MoreShould I Sell Off Some Investments To Avoid OAS Clawbacks?
The article “Should I Sell Off Some Investments To Avoid OAS Clawbacks?” was originally published on MoneySense on October 29, 2019. Q. I’m due to receive Old Age Security (OAS) benefits next year. I’m concerned because the dividends I receive from my investments will bring my income to $90,000, putting me in a situation where my…
Read More“Who’ll Pay For The Cottage If I Die?”
The article “Who’ll Pay For The Cottage If I Die?” was originally published on MoneySense on October 16, 2019. Having a mortgage doesn’t necessarily mean you need life insurance coverage equal to the amount you owe on it. Q. We are non-residents who recently purchased property in Ontario for $550,000. We will be using this as…
Read MoreThese Are The Election Promises That Could Affect Your Personal Finances
The article “These Are The Election Promises That Could Affect Your Personal Finances” was originally published on Financial Post on October 15, 2019. There’s merit in proposals presented by each of the parties, even if some are controversial As a financial planner, I pay close attention to federal and provincial budgets and elections. There is…
Read MoreWhat Is A Pension Bridge Benefit And How Does It Work?
The article “What Is A Pension Bridge Benefit And How Does It Work?” was originally published on MoneySense on October 9, 2019. With retirement a couple years away, Kevin is considering his options. Forgoing the bridge benefit may help him enjoy his pension payments for longer. Q. I am 57 years old and plan to retire…
Read MoreWhat The Federal Parties’ 2019 Campaign Platforms Mean For Your Money
The article “What The Federal Parties’ 2019 Campaign Platforms Mean For Your Money” was originally published on MoneySense on October 2, 2019. With the election approaching, we asked a financial planner to break down the issues that will hit your wallet. With the federal election fast approaching (Canadians go to the polls October 21, 2019),…
Read MoreWhat Investors Need To Know About Changes To TD e-Series Funds
The article “What Investors Need To Know About Changes To TD e-Series Funds” was originally published on MoneySense on September 24, 2019. TD e-Series Funds have been staples for passive index-fund investors and Canadian Couch Potato enthusiasts for two decades. Here’s a roundup of recent changes to the funds, and what that may mean for…
Read MoreThe Real ‘Advice Gap’ When It Comes To Financial Planning Has Nothing To Do With Investment Products
The article “The Real ‘Advice Gap’ When It Comes To Financial Planning Has Nothing To Do With Investment Products” was originally published on Financial Post on September 18, 2019. Investors are suffering from a lack of access to comprehensive financial advice If you have enough money to invest, you can choose from a variety of…
Read MoreWill Selling My House Help Me Retire Sooner – And More Securely?
The article “Will Selling My House Help Me Retire Sooner – And More Securely?” was originally published on MoneySense on September 18, 2019. Karen divorced at 55 and worries about carrying mortgage debt when she retires. At the same time, she thinks rent may cost more than she pays now. A comparison of the two…
Read MoreShould You Take Out A Loan To Pay For Your Wedding?
The article “Should You Take Out A Loan To Pay For Your Wedding?” was originally published on MoneySense on September 4, 2019. Saving up for the big day could be easier than you think. Q. My girlfriend and I have been living together in an apartment in downtown Montreal for two years now. We’d like to…
Read MoreHow To Save For Retirement At A Time When Most Aren’t Saving Much At All
The article “How To Save For Retirement At A Time When Most Aren’t Saving Much At All” was originally posted on Financial Post on August 29, 2019. Of course, regular saving is a good way to plan for retirement, but how much to set aside and how to set your targets are up for debate.…
Read MoreCan You Make A Transfer From An RESP To A Spouse’s RRSP?
The article “Can You Make A Transfer From An RESP To A Spouse’s RRSP?” was originally ublished on MoneySense on August 27, 2019. Ralph has unused savings in a registered education savings plan, and wonders if he can move the taxable portion to his wife’s retirement plan. Q. I have an RESP account that I plan…
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