There are many studies to show there is a strong correlation between early retirement and longevity. What these studies have shown is that people who take early retirement, say in their mid-fifties, live well into their 80s, therefore collecting 25+ years of pension cheques. However, later retirees typically in their mid-sixties, collect less than 2…
I often get asked about investment management fees. “How much am I paying?” or “How much will you charge to manage my money?” are the 2 most often asked questions. Of course it would be nice to receive any advice or service for free, but to quote Stephen King: “You pay for what you get,…
Despite calls for cooler temperatures and perhaps some more snow and freezing rain in the forecast, our patience and longing for the arrival of Spring is once again being tested. We are becoming desperate for results. In many ways, our attitudes of late mirror our feelings toward the general malaise of the stock markets and…
Registered Disability Savings Plans (RDSP) technically have three parties to the plan and each have their own eligibility requirements. There are three parties to an RDSP: Holder(s): The person(s) who opens the plan, contributes, authorizes contributions and manages the plan. Beneficiary: The disabled individual who receives funds from the RDSP in the future. Issuer: The…
During the difficult times of the stock market, recognizing the qualities of a good portfolio manager is of utmost importance. Moving from a large financial institution where the focus is more towards production makes realize how much my current customers appreciate the human touch in relation to their financial situation. I had comments like: ‘With…
Eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit is not based on a specific illness, condition or disability, but the degree and consistency to which the impairment affects an individual in the essential activities of daily living. This can represent a challenge for people with mental illnesses whose affects are less visual, but no less significant. To…
A Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a long term investment vehicle for Canadians with disabilities. The plan is designed to build an asset pool from which funds can be withdrawn during the retirement years to assist with the disabled individual’s care and necessities of daily life. Ensuring funds are set aside for those later years is critical…
The principal attraction of Registered Disability Savings Plans (RDSPs) are the generous government benefits, known as the Canada Disability Savings Grant and Canada Disability Savings Bond. These amounts are set out in Canada Disability Savings Act, and are tracked and paid out by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB) CDSB is non-contributory, meaning…
This week surprised many investors. As of Friday morning (Feb 9/2018), the S&P 500 index is down over 200 points to close on Thursday at 2581 or almost 10% while the S&P TSX Composite index is down 650 points or 4% to close on Thursday at 15,065. While Friday morning looks better, let’s look at what…
The Disability Tax Credit is an important tax credit for Canadians with disabilities, not just because of the $8,113 disability amount. The DTC allows you to unlocks a number of credits, deductions and benefits that can be claimed by the individual and their caregivers. ***Exponent Investment Management is a Financial Planning and Investment Management firm,…
