The article “Affordability tips for first-time home buyers to securing a mortgage” was originally published in MoneySense on October 28, 2021. Photo by Jessica Bryant via Pexels. Irene and her partner want to buy a house with savings, some help from her dad and a mortgage from an alternative lender. What…

The article “Reasons to consider early RRSP and RRIF withdrawals” was originally published in MoneySense on October 19, 2021. Photo by Mikhail Nilov from Pexels. I get a lot of reader-submitted questions about early RRSP and RRIF withdrawals and how much to take out. Here is a primer. Workers contribute…

The article “Joint tenancy vs tenancy in common in Canada: Changing ownership of assets for married and common-law partners” was originally published in MoneySense on October 14, 2021. Photo by cottonbro from Pexels. The tax implications of changing land owned jointly as tenants in common to joint tenancy with right…

The article “How much to take out of your RRSP in your 60s” was originally published in MoneySense on October 4, 2021. Photo by Marcus Aurelius from Pexels. Although RRSP withdrawals can be deferred no later than age 72, it may be necessary or advisable to make withdrawals before then.…

The article “How to figure out your investment fees” was originally published in MoneySense on September 28, 2021. Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels. John is unclear about what he’s paying his advisor, and cannot seem to get a straight answer. Q. I was wondering why there is no accounting in…

The article “Financial gifts: What you need to know before giving money or investments” was originally published in MoneySense on September 21, 2021. Photo by Marcus Aurelius from Pexels. We humans are wired for generosity: we feel joy and satisfaction when we give to others. What may not be as natural…

The article “How to avoid OAS clawback when you’ve had a temporary increase in income.” was originally published in MoneySense on September 14, 2021. A one-time bump in Sam’s income triggered an Old Age Security benefit clawback, and he wants to know if there is a remedy. Q. I liquidated a…

The article “Incorporated business owners: Should you pay yourself a salary?” was originally published in MoneySense on September 8, 2021. Photo by fauxels from Pexels. If you own an incorporated business, you can pay yourself a salary—but sometimes it’s the wrong choice. When it comes to their own compensation, a…

The article “Transferring employer pensions to LIRAs, LIFs and RRSPs?” was originally published in MoneySense on August 30, 2021. Photo by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels. Q. I have a new LIRA valued at $102,500 from leaving an old employer. Can I transfer this money to a LIF, then to an RRSP?…