Retiring Canada

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Choosing a financial advisor is about far more than comparing investment performance or management fees. The right advisor should understand your goals, your family, your retirement dreams, and help you make confident financial decisions through every stage of life. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss four characteristics that separate truly client-focused financial advisors from those who simply manage investment portfolios. You will learn why understanding your personality and relationship with money is just as important as understanding your investments, how a great advisor incorporates cash flow, retirement income, and tax planning into every recommendation, and why long-term planning requires flexibility as your life evolves. We also discuss retirement spending decisions, major purchases, risk management, government benefits, and the importance of building a trusted advisory relationship that extends far beyond the numbers. We also explain why the best financial advice is rarely about finding the perfect investment. It is about helping clients make better financial decisions that align with their goals, values and vision for retirement. This episode is for Canadian retirees, pre-retirees, DIY investors, and families looking to better understand what separates a true retirement planning partner from someone who simply manages investments. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Many Canadians spend decades preparing financially for retirement but give very little thought to what life will actually look like once works ends. The result is that retirement can become an emotional transition just as much as a financial one. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss seven practical ways to build a fulfilling retirement by creating purpose, maintaining meaningful relationships, and developing a lifestyle you'll be excited to wake up to every day. You will learn why retirement is an identity transition, how to shift your mindset from what you're retiring from to what you're retiring toward, and why routines, gratitude, hobbies, health and social connection all play an important role in long-term happiness. We also discuss retirement down ramps, building purpose, and why financial confidence allows you to focus on enjoying the next chapter of your life instead of worrying about it. We also explain why successful retirement planning is about much more than investment returns. It is about coordinating your investments, retirement income, tax strategy, health care planning, and estate plan so your money supports the life you've worked so hard to create. This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who want to prepare not only financially for retirement, but emotionally as well, so they can retire with greater confidence, purpose, and fulfillment. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started When the stock market reaches a new all-time high, many investors begin asking the same question: "Should I wait before investing?" While the concern is understandable, history tells a very different story than the headlines. In this episode of Retiring Canada, we explore what nearly 100 years of market history reveals about investing at record highs and why successful retirees focus on disciplined planning instead of trying to predict the next market correction. You will learn why all-time highs occur more often than most people realize, what historical returns have looked like after markets reached new highs, and why attempting to time the market can be far more damaging than staying invested. We also discuss diversification, valuations, retirement income planning, sequence of returns risk, and how a well-designed retirement portfolio helps investors stay confident through both bull and bear markets. We also explain why retirement investing should never be driven by yesterday's market headline. Instead, every investment decision should support a long-term retirement plan built around your income needs, tax strategy, and financial goals. This episode is for Canadian retirees, pre-retirees, and long-term investors who want to better understand how market highs fit inro a disciplined investment strategy and why confidence comes from following a financial plan, not predicting the next correction. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca 📘 Kenneth R. FrenchData Library Research Paper

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started It is far more common than many people realize for one spouse to retire several years before the other. While this transition can create uncertainty, it also opens the door to valuable planning opportunities that may not exist once both spouses are fully retired. In this episode of Retiring Canada, we discuss eight retirement planning strategies couples should consider when one spouse retires while the other continues working. You will learn how to optimize lower tax brackets, strategically withdraw from RRSP's and non-registered accounts, plan CPP and Old Age Security start dates, prepare your portfolio for future withdrawals, maximize TFSA's, and determine whether it makes sense to complete major purchases or RRSP contributions before the second spouse retires. We also discuss why staggered retirements often provide one of the best planning windows for reducing lifetime taxes and increasing long-term retirement flexibility. We also explore the non-financial benefits of staggered retirement, including the opportunity for couples to gradually adapt to retirement, establish new routines, and build confidence before both spouses fully transition into the next chapter of life. This episode is for Canadian couples approaching retirement who want to better understand how a staggered retirement can create planning opportunities while helping build a more coordinated, tax-efficient, and confident retirement strategy. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Building a retirement portfolio is only part of the equation. The real challenge is turning that portfolio into a predictable retirement paycheque while minimizing taxes and ensuring your investments continue to support your long-term goals. In this episode of Retiring Canada, we walk through the retirement income system we use to help clients coordinate their investments, tax strategy, and retirement withdrawals. You will learn the difference between income planning and tax planning, how a retirement paycheque can be created from multiple investment accounts, and why asset location is just as important as asset allocation. We also discuss bond ladders, RRSP and RRIF drawdown strategies, non-registered investment accounts, TFSA optimization, and why retirement portfolio construction should evolve as government benefits such as CPP and Old Age Security begin. We also explain why successful retirement investing is less about finding the perfect investment and more about coordinating every aspect of your financial life into one cohesive retirement plan. This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who want to better understand how coordinated portfolio construction, retirement income planning, and proactive tax strategies can help create a more flexible and confident retirement. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. http://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: http://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: http://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: http://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: http://www.retitingcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: http://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: http://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Most couples spend years planning for retirement together. Far fewer spend time planning for the financial reality that may follow when one spouse passes away. In this episode of Retiring Canada, we discuss seven financial challenges that can impact the surviving spouse, and the strategies couples can implement today to help reduce those future risks. You will learn how the loss of CPP and Old Age Security benefits can affect retirement income, why pension income splitting disappears, how RRSP and RRIF assets can create future tax problems, and why many surviving spouses face higher marginal tax rates and potential OAS claw-backs. We also discuss property decisions, estate planning considerations, tax efficient drawdown strategies, and the importance of coordinated retirement planning. We also explain why some of the most valuable retirement planning decisions are made years before they are ever needed and how proactive tax planning can help create more flexibility and peace of mind for both spouses. This episode is for Canadian retirees, pre-retirees, widows, widowers and couples who want to better understand the financial realities that often emerge after the loss of a spouse and how to prepare for them today. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. http://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: ⁠https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started⁠ 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter⁠ 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide⁠ ✏️ Submit Your Question: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question⁠ 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca⁠

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Many parents and grandparents want to help their children financially during their lifetime or thorough their estate. But what happens when concerns arise about a child's spouse, marriage or potential future relationship breakdown? In this episode of Retiring Canada, we discuss several planning strategies families may consider when gifting money to children while attempting to protect those assets from unintended outcomes. You will learn the difference between gifting and loaning money, why documentation matters, how separate property rules may apply, and the role domestic contracts can play in protecting family wealth. We also discuss trusts, estate planning considerations, declarations of gift, promissory notes and why these conversations often require both financial and legal guidance. We also explore the emotional side of family wealth planning and why some of the most important financial conversations are often the most uncomfortable to have. This episode is for Canadian retirees, parents, grandparents, business owners, and families who want to better understand how gifting and inheritance strategies can impact future generations and family wealth preservation. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latestRetirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: ⁠https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started⁠ 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter⁠ 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide⁠ ✏️ Submit Your Question: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question⁠ 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca⁠

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Many DIY investors do an excellent job building wealth during their working years. But retirement introduces a new set of challenges that go far beyond choosing investments and managing a portfolio. In this episode of Retiring Canada, we discuss the five most common retirement planning mistakes we see DIY investors make as they approach retirement. You will learn how overconfidence can create blind spots, why dividend focused portfolios may not be as efficient as many retirees believe, and how excessive cash holdings can quietly impact long term retirement outcomes. We also discuss retirement income planning, tax efficient withdrawal strategies, decumulation planning, any why many successful investors wait too long to seek professional advice. We also compare fee-based and fee-only financial planning models, outlining the strengths, tradeoffs and ideal use cases for each approach so you can better understand which model aligns with your retirement goals. This episode is for DIY investors, retirees and pre-retirees who want to better understand the retirement planning gaps that can emerge when managing retirement independently and how to avoid costly mistakes along the way. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Many Canadians spend decades building significant wealth for retirement, only to discover that financial success alone does not automatically create confidence, clarity, or peace of mind. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss why even financially successful retirees with substantial savings can still feel nervous, uncertain, or overwhelmed as retirement approaches. You will learn the two major reasons retirees commonly struggle with retirement anxiety, how emotions often influence retirement decisions more than numbers alone, and why true retirement planning extends far beyond simply managing investments. We also discuss the major gaps that exist in much of the wealth management industry, the importance of coordinated tax, income, health care, and estate planning, and how thoughtful retirement planning can help create both financial confidence and personal freedom. We also explore the emotional side of retirement, including purpose, identity, relationships, and the challenge many highly driven professionals and business owners face when stepping away from their career or life’s work. This episode is for Canadian retirees, business owners, and pre-retirees who want greater confidence not only in their finances, but also in the next chapter of their life. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter⁠ As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: ⁠https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started⁠ 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter⁠ 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide⁠ ✏️ Submit Your Question: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question⁠ 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: ⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca⁠

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Trusts can be powerful planning tools, but they are alsocomplex, expensive, and often misunderstood. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we break downhow trusts work, when they may make sense, and when they probably do not. You will learn the difference between trusts establishedduring your lifetime and trusts created through your will, along with commonuses for business owners, high net worth families, blended families, andfamilies with minor children. We also discuss family trusts, testamentarytrusts, Henson trusts, and key tax considerations that can create unintendedconsequences if not structured properly. We also explain why most people may not actually need atrust and why a proper cost benefit analysis is essential before moving forwardwith these strategies. This episode is for Canadians who want a clearerunderstanding of trusts and how they may fit into an estate or retirement plan. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latestRetirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit YourQuestion: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started For many Canadians, their home and vacation property have become some of their largest financial assets. But when it comes time to sell, transfer, or settle an estate, many families are shocked to discover the potential tax consequences attached to those properties. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss how the Canadian Primary Residence Exemption works and the planning strategies retirees and families should understand when multiple personal use properties are involved. You will learn what qualifies as a principal residence, why only one property per family unit can generally be designated in a given year, and how choosing the wrong property could result in unnecessary capital gains tax. We also walk through a detailed example involving a family home and vacation property, explain the “plus one” rule, and discuss several overlooked planning considerations involving properties owned before 1972, 1982, and 1992. We also explore the importance of tracking capital improvements, coordinating with accountants and executors, and why proactive estate and tax planning can help preserve more family wealth over time. This episode is for Canadian retirees, cottage owners, executors, and families who want to better understand how to minimize taxes and optimize the use of the Primary Residence Exemption. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Many Canadians spend decades building their retirement savings but unknowingly walk into a major tax trap once retirement income, RRIF withdrawals, and government benefits all begin colliding later in life. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss how thoughtful tax planning can help retirees create more flexibility, reduce lifetime taxes, and avoid common retirement income pitfalls. You will learn how RRSP and RRIF withdrawals impact taxation, why many retirees lose control of their income after age 71, and how OAS clawbacks and income-tested benefits can quietly erode retirement cash flow. We also discuss dividend income, marginal tax rates, the “tax valley” strategy, partial RRIF conversions, TFSA optimization, and why retirement tax planning should be reviewed and adjusted every single year. We also walk through our year end tax planning process and explain how coordinated planning between investments, taxes, retirement income, and estate goals can help Canadians spend, gift, and donate more confidently throughout retirement. This episode is for Canadian retirees, pre-retirees, and business owners who want to better understand how proactive retirement tax planning can improve long term retirement outcomes and help avoid unnecessary taxes later in life. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Many Canadians believe their estate plan is complete once they have a Will and Powers of Attorney in place. But during difficult times, families and executors often discover important details and instructions are still missing. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss two commonly overlooked estate planning documents that can help bring clarity, organization, and peace of mind to your family and executor. You will learn why estate planning should be viewed as part of a broader coordinated financial strategy, when you should review your estate documents, and how a Letter of Instruction and Executor Checklist can help simplify the estate administration process. We also discuss common estate planning gaps, executor considerations, blended family complexity, beneficiary coordination, and why many Canadians unknowingly leave behind confusion despite having legal documents in place. We also explore the emotional side of estate planning and why thoughtful preparation today can dramatically reduce stress, uncertainty, and conflict for the people you care about most. This episode is for Canadian retirees, families, and executors who want to better organize their estate plan and ensure their wishes are carried out clearly and efficiently. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca 📄 Executor Checklist 📝 Letter of Instruction

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Not every retiree wants to leave behind a large estate. For some Canadians, the goal is to fully enjoy retirement, spend confidently, and maximize experiences during their lifetime while leaving a minimal inheritance behind. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss five key planning considerations for retirees whose goal is to intentionally spend down their retirement savings over time. You will learn how longevity assumptions dramatically impact retirement planning, why retirement spending often changes through the “go-go,” “slow-go,” and “no-go” years, and how dynamic retirement income strategies may help support higher spending earlier in retirement. We also discuss inflation, long term care costs, housing decisions, home equity planning, and why tax efficient decumulation becomes critically important when the margin for error is smaller. We also explore the emotional side of retirement planning, including purpose, flexibility, adapting to change, and the deeper question of what it truly means to live well throughout retirement. This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who want to better understand how to confidently spend and enjoy their retirement years while still maintaining a sustainable long term financial plan. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca 🔗 2025 Projection Assumption Guidelines - FP Canada

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Tax season can be stressful enough without late slips, CRA reassessments, missing documents, and unnecessary surprises creating even more frustration for retirees and investors. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss three practical ways Canadians can streamline their tax filing process and reduce the likelihood of errors, reassessments, and missed tax planning opportunities. You will learn why creating a CRA My Account can simplify your financial life, how a personalized tax slip checklist can help reduce filing mistakes, and why rushing to file your taxes too early may actually increase the risk of reassessments and interest charges. We also discuss common tax filing problems that impacted Canadians in 2025, including delayed T3 and T5 slips, CRA processing issues, and the importance of coordinating with accountants and advisors during tax season. We also explore how thoughtful tax planning extends beyond simply filing a return and why a proactive retirement planning team should help coordinate taxes, investment accounts, retirement income, and long term planning together. This episode is for Canadian retirees, investors, and business owners who want to better organize their tax filing process while reducing stress and improving long term tax efficiency. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca 📄 Your Tax Strategies 2025 Tax Letter - SAMPLE 📝 Spring Tax Slip Checklist - SAMPLE

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started A strong advisor relationship can provide confidence, guidance, and peace of mind for decades. But as life changes and financial complexity increases, there may come a point where the advice you are receiving no longer aligns with your needs. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss six common situations where Canadians often seek a second opinion on their retirement and financial planning. You will learn why major life transitions such as retirement, divorce, the death of a spouse, receiving an inheritance, selling a business, or an advisor nearing retirement can dramatically change the kind of planning and support you require. We also discuss the difference between investment management and true wealth management, the importance of trust and communication, and why retirement planning extends far beyond simply selecting investments. We also explore the emotional side of advisor relationships, the value of long term planning partnerships, and why many Canadians unknowingly outgrow the advice they have been receiving for years. This episode is for Canadian retirees, business owners, and families who want to better understand when it may be time to seek a second opinion on their financial and retirement plan. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Retirement income planning is far more complex than simply withdrawing money from investment accounts. Every decision involving taxes, pensions, investments, spending, and estate planning can create ripple effects throughout your retirement. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we walk through a seven step blueprint for building a tax wise retirement income plan designed to create sustainable income for life. You will learn how decumulation strategies work, why CPP and OAS timing decisions should never be made in isolation, and how tax efficient withdrawal planning can help reduce lifetime taxes while improving retirement flexibility. We also discuss fixed income and cash wedge strategies, the importance of access to liquidity through retirement, and the significant financial impact that can occur when one spouse passes away. We also explore the softer side of retirement planning, including the importance of adaptability, ongoing planning reviews, spousal communication, and why successful retirement planning is just as much an art as it is a science. This episode is for Canadian retirees and pre-retirees who want to better understand how to build a coordinated retirement income plan that can adapt to changing life circumstances over time. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca 📘 📝Beyond the Status Quo: A Critical Assessment of Lifecycle Investment Advice 📜 Client Service Standards

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Dividend investing is one of the most popular investment strategies among Canadian retirees, but many investors may not fully understand how dividends impact taxes, diversification, government benefits, and long-term retirement planning. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss the hidden challenges and blind spots that can arise when building a retirement portfolio heavily focused on dividend paying investments. You will learn why many dividend investors become overly concentrated in Canadian banks, utilities, and energy companies, how dividend distributions impact taxable income, and why dividend gross up rules can unexpectedly increase your marginal tax rate. We also discuss OAS clawbacks, tax efficient decumulation planning, and why dividend investing may limit your ability to control retirement income and taxes over time. We also explain the psychological appeal of dividend investing, why dividends are not “free money,” and how proper diversification and retirement planning should extend far beyond simply chasing income distributions. This episode is for Canadian retirees and investors who want to better understand how dividend focused investing may impact their broader retirement income, tax, and portfolio strategy. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started Retirement is one of the biggest financial and lifestyle transitions you will ever make. If 2026 is your target retirement year, the planning decisions you make right now could have a major impact on your long term success and confidence. In this episode of Retiring Canada , we discuss five important steps Canadians should take if they are planning to retire in 2026. You will learn why budgeting and spending awareness are crucial during retirement, how to review your investment portfolio for retirement suitability, and why CPP, OAS, pension decisions, and tax wise decumulation planning can dramatically impact your future retirement income. We also discuss estate planning, Powers of Attorney, health care directives, and the importance of building a coordinated retirement plan that goes beyond investments alone. We also explore the softer side of retirement including purpose, relationships, health, and how gaining financial confidence allows retirees to focus more fully on enjoying the next chapter of life. This episode is for Canadians planning to retire in 2026 or within the next few years who want greater clarity and confidence about their long term retirement plan. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠ https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide ✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question 🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

This Holiday Season, Give Yourself the Gift of Peace of Mind in Retirement. Our Fundamental Retirement Plan (FRP) is a simple, five-step framework designed to help you build a retirement plan that reflects your goals, your lifestyle, and your biggest concerns. As we head into the season of giving, consider how a bit of thoughtful planning today can become the gift that continues to support you year after year, keeping your retirement on track, even when life brings the unexpected. Want more this Christmas? Tune in as we break down each step of the FRP process in Episodes 59-64. Perfect listening for a cozy holiday season and a confident year ahead. Specifically, we are going to discuss: The 5-step critical path to a secure retirement How a standalone session can derail your retirement The importance of ongoing monitoring and adjustments when life throws you a curve ball. Lastly, I will finish up with some action items to help address some potential shortfalls in your current plan. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS? Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the Retiring Canada Newsletter. As a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE! *** EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊 Work With Michael 💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter 👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide ✏️ Submit Your Question 📘 Get a Copy of My Book 🌐 www.RetiringCanada.ca