As of January 1, 2009 the new tax free savings account (TFSA) will be available to all Canadians aged 18 years and older. This is another great place to build a secure nest egg - and keep all the growth for yourself! You'll be allotted new contribution room each year.... $5000 to start - and any unused contributions will be carried forward to future years.
Whether you are saving for the short term (0-5 years) or for the longer term (6 years and beyond) a TFSA can be a valuable addition to your financial plan.TOP 10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE TAX-FREE SAVINGS ACCOUNT
1. The Tax-free Savings Account (TFSA) is available in Canada on January 1, 2009.
2. You can open a TFSA if you're 18 years of age and are a Canadian resident.
3. The TFSA lets you invest while not being taxed on interest or any investment earnings.
4. In 2009, contribution was up to $5,000
Starting 2013 contribution increased to $5,500
Starting January 2015 contribution INCREASED to $10,000
Starting January 2016 contribution DECREASED to $5,500
Starting January 2019 contribution INCREASED to $6000
5. When you file your tax return, the Government will determine the amount remaining for you to contribute to your TFSA the following year. Any unused contribution room gets carried over to the next year.
6. If you make a withdrawal, the amount withdrawn will be added to the contribution room available for the following year.
7. You can have more than one TFSA, including TFSA's with other financial institutions. The important thing is to remember how much you've contributed. You can contribute your room between all TFSA accounts.
8. Unlike an RRSP, you don't pay tax on any money you withdraw from the TFSA. Withdrawals also don't affect your ability to qualify for Federal Benefits such as the Child Tax Benefit or Old-age Security.
9. You'll be able to invest in Segregated Fund contracts, GIC's and Mutual Funds.
10. Money invested in a TFSA cannot be deducted from your income on your tax return; only contributions to a RRSP qualify as a deduction.Now you have a flexible alternative to registered savings and still take advantage of tax-sheltering your money.
Feel Free to Contact for a complimentary consultation with NO obligations.