We’re unpacking nore of the most common retirement questions Canadians face, including when pension income can be split, how RRSP withdrawals should be timed, and whether investing after 60 still makes sense. We look at where TFSAs fit into the mix, how a cash wedge can support peace of mind, and why timing your retirement date can have a bigger impact than you might expect.We also dive into what truly makes a retirement plan effective – from tax efficiency and income flow to the lifestyle shift that happens when work ends. If you’re planning for retirement or already there, this episode will help you make smarter, more confident decisions with the wealth you’ve built.Eligible Pension Income CRA: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/pension-income-splitting/eligible-pension-income.htmlAdvisor.ca Article: https://www.advisor.ca/practice/longevity/how-retirement-coaching-is-redefining-the-future-of-advice/
Adam and Brett from Parallel Wealth tackle more real-life questions from Canadian retirees and soon-to-be retirees. They unpack how to time OAS and CPP for maximum benefit, when a cash wedge still makes sense even with a pension, and how to handle RRIF withdrawals and withholding tax more efficiently.You’ll also hear insights on income splitting, TFSA successor rules, OAS clawbacks, and why proper coordination between accounts can make a major difference in your after-tax retirement income. Whether you’re planning ahead or already retired, this episode breaks down the strategies that create clarity, confidence, and peace of mind in retirement.
This week we’re answering more of your biggest retirement questions. We cover CPP timing, how withdrawals affect your TFSA contribution room, and when it makes sense to convert an RRSP to a RRIF. We also clear up OAS eligibility at 65, income splitting rules after 65, and the truth about spousal RRSP attribution.We dive into strategies for reducing taxes in retirement—like when an RRSP meltdown makes sense, how to balance withdrawals across different accounts, and when investment fees stop adding value. Real scenarios, practical strategies, and straightforward answers to help you plan smarter.Got a question for the next episode? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the queue.Article: https://www.advisor.ca/industry-news/industry/cffim-asks-feds-to-raise-rrif-conversion-age-rrsp-contribution-limit/
In Episode 5 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett tackle a wide range of retirement questions from our community. We cover the RRSP meltdown strategy when your TFSA is maxed, why avoiding “zero-tax years” can lower lifetime taxes, and how a cash-wedge approach helps protect income during market swings. We dig into the pros and cons of reverse mortgages vs. downsizing, the simplest ways to transfer a home in your estate (especially for those without kids), and the smarter order for drawing from RRSPs and non-registered accounts.We also explore how donating securities in-kind can provide a bigger tax benefit than cash, LIRA to LIF unlocks that many Canadians overlook, and how to think about major market swings without derailing your plan. Packed with practical examples and real viewer questions, this episode is a must-listen if you want to make smarter, tax-efficient decisions in retirement.Links:FREE Decumulation 101 Course: https://www.parallelwealth.com/offers/VzwEVF5b/checkoutCash Wedge Video: https://youtu.be/avqo8U7M7fsMoney.ca Article: https://money.ca/managing-money/how-to-earn-money/here-are-the-top-7-habits-of-quietly-wealthy-canadians
Ever wondered what really happens to your CPP if you pass away early, or if pulling money from your TFSA in December actually makes sense? In this episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett clear up common misconceptions and walk through practical strategies you can apply right away.We dig into CPP survivor benefits and sharing rules, break down RRSP myths and the timing of RRIF/LIF conversions, and explain when year-end TFSA withdrawals are actually worth it. We’ll also touch on DIY investing risks, planning fees, and why a proper retirement strategy goes far beyond quick software calculations.Have a question you’d like answered on a future episode? Send it our way — chances are, thousands of other Canadians are wondering the same thing.
Retirement Unpacked is a weekly podcast by Parallel Wealth Financial Group. Our planners break down key retirement topics for Canadians—income strategies, tax planning, CPP, OAS, TFSAs, RRSPs, RRIFs, lifestyle choices, and estate planning. We answer real questions from YouTube, emails, and client conversations, giving you practical insights and strategies to retire with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.
Join us each week as we unpack retirement together.