RDSP Explained 2026
/in 2026, blog, disability, Family, Investment/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) Explained
Planning for the long-term financial security of individuals with disabilities is a priority for many families. The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is one of the most powerful savings tools available in Canada, offering tax-deferred growth and generous government contributions to help build financial security over time.
If you or a loved one qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the RDSP can play a key role in creating a long-term financial cushion for future needs.
What is the RDSP?
The RDSP is a savings plan designed to help individuals with disabilities save for their long-term financial security. It is a tax-deferred account, which means the investments grow tax-free while inside the plan, though taxes may apply upon withdrawal. The RDSP offers government assistance through the Canada Disability Savings Grant and the Canada Disability Savings Bond, significantly boosting savings for those who qualify.
Key Features of RDSP
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Tax-Deferred Growth- Investments grow without annual taxation while inside the plan.
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Government Contributions- Eligible beneficiaries may receive grants and bonds from the federal government.
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Flexible Contributions- Contributions can be made by the beneficiary, parents, family members, or friends.
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Lifetime Contribution Limit- Up to $200,000 in personal contributions, with no annual contribution limit.
Eligibility Criteria for RDSP
To be eligible for the RDSP, the beneficiary must:
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Qualify for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
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Be a Canadian resident with a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)
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Be under age 60 when the plan is opened
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Receive government grants and bonds only until the end of the year they turn 49
Government Contributions Explained
Canada Disability Savings Grant (CDSG): The government will match contributions up to 300%, 200%, or 100%, depending on the beneficiary’s family income and the contributions made.
The CDSG provides matching government contributions based on family income, which is indexed annually.
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Lower- and modest-income families may receive matching grants of up to 300% on contributions
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Higher-income families may receive a 100% match on eligible contributions
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Maximum annual grant: $3,500
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Lifetime grant maximum: $70,000
Even small annual contributions can result in substantial government support over time.
Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB):
The CDSB is designed to support individuals with lower family income and does not require personal contributions.
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Eligible beneficiaries may receive up to $1,000 per year
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Bond amounts are determined on a sliding scale based on family income
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Lifetime bond maximum: $20,000
Why Open an RDSP?
The RDSP is one of the most effective ways to save for individuals with disabilities, providing them with long-term financial security. By taking advantage of tax-deferred growth and government contributions, families can ensure that their loved ones have financial support when they need it most.
The RDSP is one of the most powerful and underutilized savings tools in Canada for families and individuals living with disabilities. It offers:
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Long-term financial growth
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Tax advantages
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Up to $90,000 in government contributions
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Financial security for adulthood and retirement
By contributing early and consistently, even modest contributions can lead to substantial growth thanks to government support and tax-deferred compounding.
Contact us today.
Sources: . “Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP).” Canada Revenue Agency: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-disability-savings-plan-rdsp.html
“Canada Disability Savings Grant and Bond.” Government of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-disability-savings-plan-rdsp/canada-disability-savings-grant-canada-disability-savings-bond.html
Generic Ozempic Is Here. Will Your Drug Plan Actually Save Money?
/in 2026, blog, Group Benefits/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.Generic Ozempic Is Here. Will Your Drug Plan Actually Save Money?
If drug costs have been climbing on your group benefits plan, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic are likely part of the reason. These drugs have been among the fastest-growing cost drivers in employer-sponsored plans across the country. So when Health Canada approved a generic version of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, on April 28, 2026, and a second generic followed in early May, it was welcome news for anyone managing a group drug plan. Canada was the first G7 country to approve a generic semaglutide.
But here is the thing: lower costs are not guaranteed just because a cheaper version of the drug exists. Whether your plan actually sees savings depends almost entirely on how it is designed.
What Happens When a Drug Goes Generic?
When a brand-name drug loses patent protection, other manufacturers can produce and sell equivalent versions at a lower cost. The savings can be significant.
As a rule of thumb in the industry, when one or two generics enter the market, prices may fall by 20 to 30 per cent below the brand-name drug. With more generics competing over time, those discounts can deepen further. These are general industry estimates, and actual outcomes will vary.
For Ozempic specifically, this could translate to roughly one to two per cent savings on a plan’s total drug costs. That may sound modest, but for organizations with meaningful Ozempic spend, it adds up quickly, especially at renewal.
Why Savings Do Not Happen Automatically
Here is where many plan sponsors get caught off guard: the existence of a generic does not mean your plan will automatically pay for it at the lower price.
Without specific plan design provisions in place, many members may stay on the brand-name drug. Their doctor prescribed it. They have been taking it. They may not even know a generic exists. And if your plan covers it without any substitution requirement, there is little reason to switch.
The result is a plan that may continue paying brand-name prices for a drug that now has a lower-cost equivalent on the market.
What Plan Sponsors Can Do Right Now
The arrival of generic Ozempic creates a real window to act, but it requires a conversation with us. Here are the three areas worth reviewing:
Generic substitution policies. Many plans already have mandatory substitution clauses that require members to use a generic when one is available, unless there is a medical reason not to. If your plan does not have this in place, or if it only applies to certain drug categories, now is the time to review it. Adding generic substitution for GLP-1 medications could meaningfully reduce what the plan pays.
Prior authorization requirements. Prior authorization means a member needs approval before the plan will cover a specific drug. This is particularly useful for high-cost medications where clinical criteria should be confirmed before coverage is granted. It also creates a natural point to direct members to the generic option. If your plan does not currently require prior authorization for GLP-1 medications, that is worth exploring with your insurer.
Brand-name pricing negotiations. In some cases, insurers may be able to negotiate pricing directly with brand-name drug manufacturers. This is not a standard plan-design feature, but it is worth asking your insurer whether it is an option and whether brand-name semaglutide pricing is available through their arrangements. If it is available, it could help reduce costs even for members who remain on the brand-name drug for medical reasons.
The Bigger Picture on Plan Design
Generic Ozempic is a useful reminder that drug plan management is not a set-it-and-forget-it exercise. Small design decisions, like whether a plan has a substitution clause or a prior authorization requirement for high-cost drugs, can translate into real, measurable differences in cost over time.
For organizations that have seen drug costs climb in recent years, this is a meaningful opportunity. The savings potential is real. Whether your plan captures it depends on reviewing your plan design and having a conversation with us before your next renewal.
This content is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide investment, tax, or legal advice, and should not be relied upon as such.
Sources:
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Generic Ozempic could trim employer drug costs, but savings depend on plan design: expert – Benefits Canada
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Canada becomes the first G7 country to approve a generic version of semaglutide – Health Canada
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Drug plan management and generic substitution – Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association
What Is Participating Whole Life Insurance?
/in 2026, blog, Insurance/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.What Is Participating Whole Life Insurance?
Most people buy life insurance for one reason: to make sure their family is protected if something happens to them. But there is a type of life insurance that does something more – it builds value over time while you are still alive. That type is called participating whole life insurance, and it works very differently from the term policies most Canadians are familiar with.
Here is what it means, how it works, and whether it might be a fit for you.
Permanent Coverage That Does Not Expire
Term life insurance covers you for a set period – 10, 20, or 30 years. Participating whole life insurance is permanent. It covers you for your entire life, as long as premiums are paid, and the death benefit is guaranteed.
That permanence is the first major difference. But the bigger difference is what happens to your premiums while you are alive.
With a term policy, your premiums go entirely toward the cost of insurance. With participating whole life, the insurer pools premiums into a participating account that is professionally managed. Dividends may be paid when the account’s experience is favourable, based on factors such as investment returns, expenses, and mortality experience.
How Dividends Work
The word “dividend” here is different from stock dividends. In the context of a participating whole life policy, a dividend is a share of the insurance company’s surplus – essentially, the company returning a portion of the money when investment performance, claims experience, and expenses go better than expected.
These dividends are not guaranteed. They are declared each year by the insurance company based on how the participating account performed. That said, many Canadian participating insurers have long histories of paying dividends, though past performance does not guarantee future results.
When you receive a dividend, you have a few options for how to use it:
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Take it as cash. The dividend is paid to you directly.
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Apply it to your premium. It reduces how much you pay out of pocket.
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Buy additional paid-up insurance. This is the most common choice. The dividend purchases more coverage, which in turn earns its own dividends. Over time, this compounds.
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Leave it on deposit. The dividend sits with the insurer and earns interest.
Most policyholders who hold participating whole life for the long term choose to purchase additional paid-up insurance, because it accelerates both the death benefit and the cash value of the policy.
The Cash Value
One of the most distinctive features of a participating whole life policy is that it builds cash value. The policy builds guaranteed cash value as part of its structure, and dividends can add a non-guaranteed layer of growth if they are used to buy paid-up additions.
The policy accumulates cash value that you may be able to access, subject to policy terms, in a few ways:
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Policy loans. You can borrow against the cash value without going through a lender or credit check. Policy loans do not have fixed repayment schedules, but any unpaid balance can reduce the death benefit.
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Surrendering the policy. If you decide you no longer need the coverage, you can cancel the policy and receive the accumulated surrender value. The tax treatment on surrender can be technical and depends on the policy’s adjusted cost basis — the disclaimer at the end of this article applies here.
The cash value grows on a guaranteed basis, separate from the dividends. The dividends, if used to purchase paid-up additions, add a non-guaranteed layer of growth on top.
Who Is This Type of Policy For?
Participating whole life is not the right fit for every situation. Because premiums are higher than term insurance, it is most commonly used by people who have a long-term need for life insurance and who can sustain the premium over time.
Some of the most common situations where it makes sense:
Families building long-term wealth. For parents who want to ensure a guaranteed death benefit no matter when they pass, plus build a tax-advantaged asset over decades, participating whole life offers both.
Business owners and incorporated professionals. A participating whole life policy held inside a corporation may offer a tax-efficient approach to building cash value inside a permanent policy, depending on the structure and the corporation’s specific situation. It can be used by incorporated professionals – such as dentists and physicians – to redirect excess corporate cash into a long-term, protected asset.
Estate planning. For those who want to leave a specific, guaranteed sum to their heirs or a charitable organization, a participating whole life policy creates a known outcome – the death benefit- regardless of when death occurs.
High net worth individuals. When other registered accounts (TFSA, RRSP) are maximized, participating whole life can offer a tax-efficient way to build cash value inside a permanent policy, outside of registered limits.
How It Fits Alongside Term Insurance
Term and participating whole life insurance are not competitors- they serve different purposes, and many Canadians use both at different stages of life.
Term insurance is a straightforward, affordable way to protect your family during the years it matters most – while a mortgage is being paid down, while children are young, or while income replacement is the primary concern. It does exactly what it is designed to do.
Participating whole life steps in when the need for coverage is permanent, when building long-term cash value matters, or when the policy is part of a broader estate or corporate strategy. The two products often complement each other well, and choosing one does not mean ruling out the other.
What to Take Away
Participating whole life insurance combines permanent death benefit protection with a growing cash value and the potential for dividends. It is a longer-term commitment with higher premiums, and it is designed for situations where permanence, cash value, and legacy planning are part of the picture.
If you are considering permanent life insurance, take time to review how dividend performance has held up at the insurer you are looking at, understand the various dividend options, and think through whether the long-term commitment fits your situation.
This content is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide investment, tax, or legal advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Policy design, dividend scale performance, cash value growth, and tax treatment vary by insurer and by the specific policy contract. Always review the policy illustration and contract terms carefully.
Sources:
Tax Lines to Look Out For on Your 2025 Canadian Tax Return
/in 2026, blog/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.Tax Lines to Look Out For on Your 2025 Canadian Tax Return
The deadline for filing your 2025 income tax return is April 30, 2026. With several changes this year, from a lower federal tax rate to new benefits and eliminated credits, it pays to know what has changed before you file. This guide covers the key updates, deductions, and credits separated into sections for Individuals and Families, and Self-Employed Individuals.
For Individuals and Families
Federal Tax Rate Reduction
Effective July 1, 2025, under draft legislation introduced May 27, 2025, the lowest federal income tax rate was reduced from 15% to 14%. Because this change took effect halfway through the year, the blended rate for 2025 is 14.5%. This applies to the first $57,375 of taxable income and could save an individual up to $420 per year, or up to $840 for a two-income household.
Because the lowest rate also determines the value of most non-refundable tax credits, the government introduced a new top-up credit. This credit restores the full 15% value on eligible non-refundable credits claimed on amounts above $57,375, so the rate cut does not reduce the value of credits like the Basic Personal Amount, medical expenses, or tuition. This top-up credit will remain in place through the 2030 tax year.
Basic Personal Amount (BPA)
For 2025, the Basic Personal Amount has increased to $16,129 for taxpayers with net income up to $177,882. For those with net incomes above this amount, the BPA is gradually reduced, reaching a minimum of $14,538 at incomes of $253,414 or higher.

Capital Gains
The proposed increase in the capital gains inclusion rate from 50% to 66.67% on gains over $250,000 for individuals (and on all gains for corporations and most trusts) has been cancelled. The inclusion rate remains at 50% for all taxpayers. However, the lifetime capital gains exemption has been raised to $1,250,000 for qualifying dispositions of small business shares and farming or fishing property, up from $1,016,836.
Canada Disability Benefit
A new benefit became available in June 2025, providing up to $200 per month ($2,400 per year) for Canadian residents aged 18 to 64 who are approved for the Disability Tax Credit.
The benefit is income-tested, with the maximum amount generally available to single individuals with adjusted family net income of $23,000 or less. For couples, the threshold is higher (generally $32,500 after a working income exemption).
The benefit is gradually reduced as income increases. For single individuals, it is typically reduced by 20 cents for each dollar above the threshold. For couples, the reduction may be 20% or split at 10% each, depending on whether one or both partners qualify for the benefit.
What Has Been Eliminated
Canadian Journalism Tax Credit: The 15% non-refundable tax credit for qualifying digital news subscriptions (up to $75 per year) is no longer available for 2025.
Home Accessibility and Medical Expense Double-Claim: Under proposed measures announced in Budget 2025 and included in Bill C-15, 2025 is expected to be the final year that certain expenses qualifying for the Home Accessibility Tax Credit can also be claimed as a medical expense. Starting in 2026, these expenses will generally need to be claimed under only one provision and cannot be double-counted. Individuals planning eligible renovations may wish to take advantage of the current rules before this change takes effect.
Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)
The updated AMT rules that took effect in 2024 continue to apply. These include a higher minimum tax rate, modified calculation for adjusted taxable income affecting foreign tax credits and minimum tax carryovers, and limited value on most non-refundable tax credits.
Popular Tax Credits and Deductions
Canada Training Credit (CTC) Eligible taxpayers aged 26 to 65 can claim this refundable tax credit to cover a portion of eligible tuition and fees for training or courses to enhance their skills.
Canada Caregiver Credit (CCC) This non-refundable tax credit supports individuals caring for family members or dependents with a physical or mental impairment. The amount varies based on the dependent’s relationship, net income, and circumstances.
Child Care Expenses Child care expenses, such as daycare, nursery schools, day camps, and boarding schools, are deductible if incurred to enable a parent or guardian to work, pursue education, or conduct research.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC) The DTC provides a non-refundable tax credit for individuals with disabilities or their caregivers to reduce the amount of income tax payable. For 2025, the disability amount is $10,138. Applicants must have a certified disability lasting at least 12 months. The expenses eligible for the disability supports deduction have also been expanded for 2025.
Moving Expenses Deductible moving expenses include transportation and storage costs, travel expenses, temporary living costs, and incidental expenses incurred when relocating at least 40 kilometers closer to a new work location, educational institution, or business location.
Interest Paid on Student Loans Interest paid on eligible student loans can be claimed as a non-refundable tax credit. The loans must be under federal, provincial, or territorial student loan programs.
Donations and Gifts Donations made to registered charities or other qualified organizations qualify for non-refundable federal and provincial tax credits. Typically, eligible amounts up to 75% of net income can be claimed. Note: due to the Canada Post strike in late 2024, eligible donations made in the first two months of 2025 can also be claimed on a 2024 return.
GST/HST Credit The GST/HST credit is a quarterly refundable payment designed to offset the impact of sales tax on low to moderate-income individuals and families. Eligibility is automatically assessed based on the annual tax return.
RRSP Contributions The maximum RRSP contribution for 2025 has increased to $32,490 (up from $31,560 in 2024), based on 18% of the previous year’s earned income. The TFSA annual contribution limit remains at $7,000 for 2025.
First Home Savings Account (FHSA) Contributions of up to $8,000 per year (lifetime limit of $40,000) are tax-deductible, grow tax-free, and qualifying withdrawals for a first home purchase are also tax-free. The FHSA can be used alongside the Home Buyers’ Plan, which maintains a withdrawal limit of $60,000.
For Self-Employed Individuals
CPP Contributions
Self-employed individuals pay both the employee and employer portions of CPP, for a combined rate of 11.90% on earnings up to the YMPE ($71,300). For CPP2, the self-employed rate is 8% on earnings between $71,300 and $81,200, with a maximum CPP2 contribution of $792.

Filing and Payment Deadlines
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Tax Return Deadline: June 15, 2026.
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Balance due must be paid by April 30, 2026.
Reporting Business Income
Report income on a calendar-year basis for sole proprietorships and partnerships.
Digital Platform Operators
Reporting rules require platform operators to collect and report seller information to the CRA. If income is earned through a digital platform, it is important to ensure it is properly reported.
Filing season for 2025 returns opens February 23, 2026. With a lower federal tax rate, increased contribution limits, and several eliminated credits and taxes, reviewing these changes before filing can help maximize savings and avoid surprises. The CRA is also no longer mailing paper tax packages, so returns and forms are available online at canada.ca or by calling 1-855-330-3305.
Sources
Canada Revenue Agency. “Personal income tax: What’s new for 2025.” – Canada.ca – https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/whats-new.html
Canada Revenue Agency. “Important changes to the 2025 income tax package.” – Canada.ca – https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/news/newsroom/tax-tips/tax-tips-2025/important-changes-2025-income-tax-package.html
Canada Revenue Agency. “Maximum Pensionable Earnings and Contributions for 2025.” – Canada.ca – https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/news/newsroom/tax-tips/tax-tips-2024/canada-revenue-agency-announces-maximum-pensionable-earnings-contributions-2025.html
Canada Revenue Agency. “Basic Personal Amount.” – Canada.ca – https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/programs/about-canada-revenue-agency-cra/federal-government-budgets/basic-personal-amount.html
Canada Revenue Agency. “Tax rates and income brackets for individuals.” – Canada.ca – https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/frequently-asked-questions-individuals/canadian-income-tax-rates-individuals-current-previous-years.html
“Budget 2025 – Tax Measures” (Home Accessibility Tax Credit change) – https://budget.canada.ca/2025/report-rapport/tm-mf-en.html
This content is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide investment, tax, or legal advice, and should not be relied upon as such.
2026 Canada Money Facts
/in 2026, blog, tax/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.
Staying informed about financial limits and government benefits is essential for effective planning. The 2026 Canada Money Facts infographic provides a clear snapshot of key savings limits and retirement benefits, including TFSA, RRSP, FHSA, RESP, CPP, and OAS.
Here’s what you need to know for 2026.
Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)
The 2026 TFSA contribution limit is $7,000, bringing the cumulative contribution room to $109,000 for individuals who have been eligible since the TFSA was introduced in 2009 and have never contributed.
It’s important to note that total TFSA room depends on personal circumstances. Eligibility begins at age 18 or 19, depending on the province, and newcomers to Canada accumulate room only from the year they become residents. If you became eligible after 2009, your cumulative limit will be lower based on the years you qualified.
The TFSA remains one of the most flexible savings tools available, allowing investments to grow tax-free and withdrawals to be made without triggering tax.
Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP)
For 2026, the RRSP contribution limit is $33,810, calculated as 18% of earned income from the prior year, up to the annual maximum. To fully maximize RRSP contributions for 2026, an individual would need prior-year earned income of approximately $187,833.
RRSPs continue to be a cornerstone of retirement planning, offering tax-deductible contributions and tax-deferred growth, which can be especially valuable during higher-income earning years.
First Home Savings Account (FHSA)
The FHSA annual contribution limit remains $8,000 in 2026, with a cumulative contribution limit of $32,000.
As with previous years, FHSA eligibility begins at the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province), and contributions can only be made once the account is opened. Since the FHSA was introduced in 2023, not everyone will have access to the full cumulative room.
FHSA contributions are tax-deductible, and qualifying withdrawals for a first home purchase are tax-free, making this account a powerful planning tool for first-time homebuyers.
Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)
RESP limits remain unchanged in 2026:
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Lifetime contribution limit: $50,000 per beneficiary
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Annual Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG): up to $500
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Lifetime CESG maximum: $7,200
RESPs continue to be an effective way to save for a child’s post-secondary education while benefiting from government grants and tax-deferred growth.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) & Old Age Security (OAS)
CPP benefit amounts increase for 2026:
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Maximum CPP retirement benefit: $18,091 annually
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Maximum CPP disability benefit: $20,894 annually
Actual CPP payments depend on an individual’s contribution history and the age at which benefits begin, but these figures provide a useful benchmark for planning purposes.
OAS payments for January 2026 are estimated at:
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Ages 65–74: up to $8,907 annually
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Ages 75+: up to $9,798 annually
OAS is subject to a clawback for higher-income retirees. In 2026, the clawback begins when 2025 net income exceeds $93,454. Full clawback thresholds are approximately $152,062 for ages 65–74 and $157,923 for ages 75 and over. OAS benefits are reduced by 15% of income above the threshold.
This 2026 infographic is designed as a quick reference to help Canadians stay informed and make confident planning decisions. Whether you’re maximizing registered accounts, preparing for retirement income, or saving for a home or education, understanding these updated limits helps ensure you’re making the most of available opportunities.
Staying proactive and informed in 2026 can make a meaningful difference in your long-term financial success.
Sources:
TFSA contribution limits: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/tax-free-savings-account.html
RRSP contribution limits: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/rrsps-related-plans.html
First Home Savings Account: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/first-home-savings-account.html
Registered Education Savings Plan: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-education-savings-plans-resps.html
Canada Pension Plan: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/payment-amounts.html
Old Age Security: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/old-age-security/payments.html
– h2.1
B.C. Budget 2026: What It Means for You
/in 2026, blog/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.On February 17, 2026, the B.C. government released its 2026 budget, projecting deficits of $9.6 billion for 2025–26 and $13.3 billion for 2026–27. The plan raises revenue through income tax increases, broader PST, and property tax changes. Most people will notice impacts in four areas: income tax, sales tax on services, property taxes, and family/volunteer benefits.
Higher income tax on your first dollars
Starting 2026, B.C.’s lowest tax rate rises to 5.6% from 5.06% on the first $50,363 of income. Basic credits (personal amount, age amount) use the same higher rate.
This affects nearly everyone—workers and retirees alike—with a small but noticeable provincial tax bump on 2026 returns. Top combined federal/B.C. rates stay the same: 53.5% on ordinary income, 26.75% on capital gains.
From 2027–2030, indexation of brackets and credits freezes. Rising incomes will push more into higher brackets, quietly raising taxes over time.
Takeaway: Maximize RRSP/TFSA contributions, income splitting, and timing of withdrawals/bonuses.
PST hits more services and items
From October 1, 2026, PST applies to:
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Accounting/bookkeeping
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Architectural/engineering/geoscience services (30% of price)
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Strata/rental property management
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Non-residential real estate commissions
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Security/private investigation
Exemptions end for clothing patterns/yarn/fabrics, clothing repairs, basic cable, and landline/toll-free phone services.
Households face higher strata fees, renovation costs, and utility bills. Businesses see added service expenses.
Takeaway: Update 2026–27 budgets; business owners, review pricing/contracts.
Property taxes up for some owners
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Higher school tax on homes over $3M
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Rural property taxes rise (tied to GDP growth) from 2026
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$200 northern/rural homeowner benefit ends Jan 1, 2027
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Speculation & Vacancy Tax to 4% from 3% (2027+) for foreign/untaxed owners
High-value, rural, or vacant property owners face higher carrying costs. Non-residents may rethink holding underused homes.
Takeaway: Review property plans.
New support for families & volunteers
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B.C. Family Benefit disability supplement: up to $6,000/child (from July 2027), tied to federal DTC, phases out above $50K family income
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Tax reduction credit: max $690 (from $575) if income under $25,570
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Volunteer firefighter/search & rescue credit: $6,000 (doubled) from 2026
Takeaway: Check Disability Tax Credit eligibility; ensure credits are claimed.
Next steps
These changes add up: small income tax hikes, broader PST, targeted property increases, plus select benefits.
If you’re wondering how these changes will affect your taxes or your long-term plans, let’s review your situation together and identify any adjustments that could keep you on track.
Sources: Province of British Columbia. Budget 2026: Stronger Together. Ministry of Finance, 17 Feb. 2026, www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/2026/.
This content is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide investment, tax, or legal advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Information is based on current regulatory guidance and may change over time. Reporting formats and timing may vary by investment provider.
Tax Free Savings Account 2026
/in 2026, blog, Investment, Tax Free Savings Account/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.
Tax Free Savings Account 2026
A Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) is a registered investment account available to Canadian residents. Its biggest advantage is simple: your investments can grow tax-free, and withdrawals are tax-free.
Because of its flexibility, the TFSA can play many roles — from short-term savings to long-term planning — depending on how it’s used and invested. Understanding the rules helps ensure you’re getting the most out of this account.
Eligibility Requirements
To open a TFSA, you must:
- Be a resident of Canada
- Have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Be at least 18 years old
In provinces or territories where the legal age to enter a contract is 19, TFSA contribution room still begins accumulating at age 18, even though you may not be able to open the account until you reach the age of majority.
Key Benefits of a TFSA
Tax-free growth
Any income earned inside a TFSA is not taxed, including:
- Interest
- Dividends
- Capital gains
Tax-free withdrawals
You can generally withdraw money from your TFSA at any time, depending on the investments held. Withdrawals are not taxable and do not affect your income.
Withdrawals restore contribution room
Amounts withdrawn from your TFSA are added back to your contribution room at the beginning of the following calendar year, giving you ongoing flexibility.
TFSA Contribution Limit for 2026
The TFSA annual dollar limit has changed over time:
- 2009–2012: $5,000
- 2013–2014: $5,500
- 2015: $10,000
- 2016–2018: $5,500
- 2019–2022: $6,000
- 2023: $6,500
- 2024–2026: $7,000
If you have been eligible to contribute since 2009 and have never contributed, your total cumulative TFSA contribution room as of 2026 is $109,000.
Your personal TFSA contribution room is generally made up of:
- The current year’s TFSA limit
- Any unused TFSA room from prior years
- Withdrawals made in the previous year
Calculating Annual Contribution Room
Example #1: Carrying forward unused room
In 2025, the TFSA limit is $7,000.
You contribute $5,000, leaving $2,000 unused of contribution room.
In 2026, your available contribution room becomes:
- $7,000 (2026 annual limit)
+ $2,000 (unused room carried forward from 2025)
= $9,000 total contribution room
Unused TFSA room continues to carry forward indefinitely.
Example #2: Withdrawals create new room the following year
In 2024, the TFSA annual limit is $7,000.
You contribute $5,000, leaving $2,000 of unused contribution room.
In 2025, you have $9,000 of available contribution room ($7,000 annual limit + $2,000 carried forward).
You contribute $7,000 and later withdraw $1,000.
In 2026, your available contribution room becomes:
-
$7,000 (2026 limit)
+ $2,000 (unused room carried forward) + $1,000 (withdrawn in 2025)
= $10,000 total contribution room.
Withdrawals do not permanently reduce your TFSA contribution room — the withdrawn amount is added back at the beginning of the following year.
Over-Contributions: What to Watch For
If you exceed your available TFSA contribution room at any time during the year, a penalty applies:
- 1% per month on the highest excess amount
- Charged for each month the excess remains in the account
This most commonly happens when someone withdraws funds and re-contributes them in the same year without sufficient available room.
Eligible Investments
Most investments permitted in an RRSP are also allowed in a TFSA, including:
- Cash and savings
- Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs)
- Mutual funds and segregated funds
- Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and publicly traded stocks
- Bonds
The right investment mix depends on your goals, timeline, and comfort with risk.
TFSA Withdrawals and Re-Contributions
You can generally withdraw any amount from your TFSA at any time. However, if you plan to re-contribute those funds in the same calendar year, you must already have enough unused TFSA room available.
For example, if you withdraw $1,000 in 2026 and re-contribute it later in 2026 without available room, the re-contribution may be treated as an over-contribution and subject to penalty tax.
Beneficiary vs. Successor Holder: Why This Matters for Spouses
When setting up a TFSA, you can name either a beneficiary or, if applicable, a successor holder. While the terms sound similar, the outcome can be very different — especially for spouses and common-law partners.
Successor Holder (Spouse or Common-Law Partner Only)
A successor holder can only be a spouse or common-law partner. When a spouse is named as successor holder:
- The TFSA continues in their name after death
- The account remains tax-free
- No TFSA contribution room is used by the surviving spouse
- The account does not need to be collapsed or transferred
This is often the most seamless and tax-efficient option for couples, as it allows the TFSA to continue uninterrupted.
Beneficiary (Anyone You Choose)
A beneficiary can be anyone, including a spouse, child, or other family member. When a TFSA beneficiary is named:
- The value of the TFSA at the date of death is paid out tax-free
- The TFSA does not continue as a TFSA in the beneficiary’s name
- Any growth after death may be taxable
- If the beneficiary is a spouse, the inherited amount does not automatically retain TFSA status
A spouse beneficiary may be able to contribute the inherited amount to their own TFSA only if they have available contribution room.
Why the Distinction Is Important
For married or common-law couples, naming a successor holder instead of a beneficiary can:
- Preserve the TFSA’s tax-free status
- Avoid using up the surviving spouse’s TFSA contribution room
- Reduce administrative delays and paperwork
- Simplify estate settlement
This designation must be set up correctly and reviewed periodically, as rules can vary depending on the account provider and province.
Using a TFSA Effectively in 2026
A TFSA can support many goals — emergency savings, major purchases, retirement flexibility, or long-term investing. The key is ensuring it works alongside your other accounts, such as RRSPs and FHSAs, rather than in isolation.
If you’re unsure how much to contribute, how to invest, or how a TFSA fits into your overall strategy, reviewing your approach regularly can help keep your plan on track for 2026 and beyond.
Sources:
Canada Revenue Agency. Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA). Government of Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/tax-free-savings-account.html
2026 Financial Calendar
/in 2026, blog, Family, financial planning, personal finances, RRSP, tax, Tax Free Savings Account/by Pro Active Financial Services Ltd.




Welcome to our 2026 financial calendar!
This calendar is designed to help you keep track of important financial dates and deadlines, such as tax filing and government benefit distribution. You can bookmark this page for easy reference or add these dates to your personal calendar so you don’t miss any important financial obligations.
If you need help with your taxes, 2025 income tax packages will be available starting January 20, 2026. Don’t wait until the last minute to get started on your tax return – make an appointment with your accountant so you’re ready when tax season arrives.
Important Dates to Know
On January 1, 2026, the contribution room for your Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) opens again. The TFSA dollar limit for 2026 is $7,000.
For those who are eligible, the contribution room for your:
-
Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP)
-
First Home Savings Account (FHSA)
-
Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)
-
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
will also be available for the 2026 calendar year.
RRSP Deadline (for the 2025 Tax Year)
For your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contributions to be eligible for the 2025 income tax year, you must make them by:
-
March 2, 2026
Contributions made after this date will generally count toward your 2026 tax return.
GST/HST Credit Payment Dates
GST/HST credit payments will be issued on:
-
January 5
-
April 2
-
July 3
-
October 5
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Payment Dates
Canada Child Benefit payments will be issued on:
-
January 20
-
February 20
-
March 20
-
April 20
-
May 20
-
June 19
-
July 20
-
August 20
-
September 18
-
October 20
-
November 20
-
December 11
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS)
The government will issue Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) payments on the following dates:
-
January 28
-
February 25
-
March 27
-
April 28
-
May 27
-
June 26
-
July 29
-
August 27
-
September 25
-
October 28
-
November 26
-
December 22
Bank of Canada Interest Rate Announcements
The Bank of Canada will make interest rate announcements on:
-
January 28
-
March 18
-
April 29
-
June 10
-
July 15
-
September 2
-
October 28
-
December 9
Personal Income Tax Deadlines
For most individuals, April 30, 2026 is the last day to:
-
File your 2025 personal income tax return, and
-
Pay any balance owing on your 2025 taxes.
This is also generally the filing deadline for final returns if death occurred between January 1 and October 31, 2025.
If death occurred between November 1 and December 31, 2025, the filing deadline for the final return is six months after the date of death (which will fall between May 1 and June 30, 2026).
Self-Employment Tax Deadlines
If you or your spouse/common-law partner are self-employed:
-
The filing deadline for your 2025 tax return is June 15, 2026.
-
Any tax payments owing are still due by April 30, 2026.
Filing later than these dates may result in interest and penalties.
Year-End Contribution Deadlines
The final contribution deadline for the 2026 calendar year for the following accounts is December 31, 2026:
-
Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)
-
First Home Savings Account (FHSA)
-
Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)
-
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
December 31, 2026 is also the deadline for:
-
Making 2026 charitable donations that you want to claim on your 2026 tax return.
Individuals who turn 71 in 2026 to:
-
Make their last contributions to their own RRSPs, and
-
Convert their RRSPs to RRIFs (or an annuity).
Please reach out if you have any questions or would like help planning around any of these dates.
Sources:
Canada Revenue Agency. Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), Guide for Individuals. RC4466 (E), Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/forms-publications/publications/rc4466/tax-free-savings-account-tfsa-guide-individuals.html.
Canada Revenue Agency. “Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP).” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/rrsps-related-plans/registered-retirement-savings-plan-rrsp.html.
Canada Revenue Agency. “Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs).” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-education-savings-plans-resps.html.
Canada Revenue Agency. “First Home Savings Account (FHSA).” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/first-home-savings-account.html.
Canada Revenue Agency. “GST/HST Credit – Payment Dates.” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/gst-hst-credit/payment-dates.html#toc1.
Canada Revenue Agency. “Benefit Payment Dates.” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/benefit-payment-dates.html.
Canada. “Benefit Payment Dates Calendar.” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/calendar.html.
Bank of Canada. “Bank of Canada Publishes 2026 Schedule for Policy Interest Rate Announcements and Other Major Publications.” Bank of Canada, https://www.bankofcanada.ca/2025/08/bank-canada-publishes-2026-schedule-policy-interest-rate-announcements-other-major-publications/.
Canada Revenue Agency. “Important Dates – Individuals.” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/important-dates-individuals.html.
Canada Revenue Agency. “Important Dates for RRSPs, RRIFs, and RDSPs.” Canada.ca, https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/rrsps-related-plans/important-dates-rrsp-rrif-rdsp.html.
Contact Us
Troy Andersen
Certified Financial Planner®
President
Tel: 604-341-5686
Email: troy@pafinancial.ca
16741 – 84A Avenue
Surrey, BC
V4N 4W2
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