Many of my clients come to me and ask if they should borrow money to contribute to their RRSP's. Many of them have just paid off their Xmas credit cards and are feeling the financial pinch. So, what should they do?

If you've got room to contribute and your in a high marginal tax bracket (say 40 percent), you really should consider taking out a loan. The effect of missing a single $1,000 contribution at age 29 can be a $21,725 reduction in the net value of your RSP by the time you reach age 69 (based on a 8% annual rate of return and assuming you do not carry forward this contribution to a future year).

As well as potential future gains, contributing as much as you can to your RSP annually helps to reduce your income tax in that year and put the money back in your hands – for investing or to help repay your RSP loan.

The following chart illustrates how a tax refund from your RSP contribution can lower the cost of borrowing money significantly.

The Benefits of Borrowing $5,000
(Based on 1 year loan at prime 4.5% *)

Borrow $5,000 and contribute proceeds to RSP
$5,000

Return on RSP Investment for 1 year at 8%
400

Repay loan over 12 months at $427 per month
5,124

Net gain on investment
276

Rebate from income tax
2,000

NET BENEFIT
$2,276

The current low interest rates provide an exceptional opportunity to maximize your RSP contributions at a low cost. Speak to your financial advisor to see if this is the right opportunity for you.

To view a powerpoint presentation about RRSP loans, click RRSP Loans[1].ppt">../assets/Celebrities/rrsp[1].ppt

To view a powerpoint presentation about RRSP loans, click RRSP Loans
*RSP borrowing options vary based on amount borrowed and amortization, so you should speak to your financial advisor about your specific needs.
Note: This example assumes that your RSP earns 8% interest compounded annually, you have a marginal tax rate of 40%, the loan interest rate is 4.5% compounded monthly, and the loan is repaid in 12 equal monthly installments. Chart is for illustrative purposes only.