In the first episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam Bornn and Brett Martinson from Parallel Wealth answer real retirement questions from Canadians. We cover how CPP survivor benefits will work in 2025, explain the cash wedge strategy for creating reliable retirement income, and clear up common mistakes people make with TFSA contribution rules. We also discuss how to approach big purchases in retirement, what fee-based advisor models actually mean, and share practical RRIF and RRSP tips you can use right away.

This episode is designed to help you avoid costly mistakes, understand your options, and feel more confident about your financial future.

•••

Timestamps

00:00 Disclaimer  

00:16 Host Intros  

02:19 CPP Survivor Benefits  

06:27 Cash Wedge Strategy  

08:55 Big Purchases in Retirement  

10:37 Stress-Testing Expenses  

14:16 TFSA Catch-Up  

16:25 CRA TFSA Numbers  

20:05 TFSA Carry Forward & Withdrawals  

22:55 TFSA Growth & Limits  

25:51 Case study: Overbuilt Cash Wedge  

30:38 Fee-Based vs Bundled Fees  

34:16 What Am I Paying For?  

40:07 RRIF to RRSP Tips

42:34 Conclusion  

In this short trailer, Adam and Brett introduce Retirement Unpacked, a new podcast from Parallel Wealth. Together they share what’s ahead–tackling retirement questions Canadians face every day.

Adam and Brett dive into some of the most common retirement planning questions from YouTube and client calls. We dig into planning for future care costs, how to think about RRSP deductions you carry forward, mortgage vs TFSA when income is lower, RRSP vs TFSA “levers,” CPP timing when you have a big DB pension, and why “take CPP early and invest it” rarely wins once you model taxes and cash flow. We also touch on gifting or loaning money to adult children, and finish with a practical tip for estimating retirement expenses without a rigid budget.

Whether you’re planning ahead or already retired, this episode offers clear, practical insights to help you make informed financial decisions.

00:00 Disclaimer

00:16 Welcome & Overview

00:51 Planning for Future Care Costs

02:28 Issues with Cookie-Cutter Bank Plans

03:52 Balancing Income in Go-Go vs No-Go Years

04:42 Using Home Equity as a Safety Net

07:13 RRSP Contributions Now vs Deducting Later

10:10 Paying Down Mortgage vs Funding TFSA

12:22 RRSP vs TFSA: Key Rules of Thumb

14:40 Income Levels Where RRSPs Start to Make Sense

17:05 CPP Timing with a Large DB Pension

22:00 Myths About Delaying CPP and Estates

24:37 Why “Take CPP Early and Invest It” Often Fails

31:32 Gifting vs Loaning Money to Adult Children

37:04 Budgeting and Estimating Retirement Expenses Tip

41:20 Conclusion

In Episode 3 of Retirement Unpacked, we dig into more of your retirement questions. We look at whether it’s possible to have “too much RRSP,” why certain RRIF withdrawal strategies can cause bigger tax problems, and how withholding tax really works. We also talk about the rumours of CPP and OAS moving to age 67, when it makes sense to turn off dividend reinvestments, and why a line of credit can sometimes be smarter than pulling extra from a RRIF. Along the way, we share client stories and planning conversations that highlight how the right strategy can make all the difference.

Whether you’re retiring soon or already there, this episode will help you make informed decisions about your money.

Steady Hand Interview from 05:43 https://youtu.be/yPPAjsCogAc?si=FNpFbbJfqMPHurwx

00:00 Disclaimer

00:16 Welcome & overview

00:38 Can you have too much RRSP?

02:59 Bad RRIF withdrawal advice from banks

04:21 Why zero-tax years can backfire

05:47 RRSPs vs. RRIFs and long-term tax costs

07:47 Withholding tax explained simply

09:07 CRA refunds and real-life examples

11:51 Will CPP or OAS move to 67?

15:22 What happens when CPP disability ends

17:37 Dividends, DRIPs, and cashflow strategies

21:22 Can you really afford it in retirement?

25:48 Line of credit vs. RRIF withdrawals advice

30:03 Conclusion

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.

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/checkout

Cash Wedge Video: https://youtu.be/avqo8U7M7fs

Money.ca Article: https://money.ca/managing-money/how-to-earn-money/here-are-the-top-7-habits-of-quietly-wealthy-canadians

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/

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.

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.html

Advisor.ca Article: https://www.advisor.ca/practice/longevity/how-retirement-coaching-is-redefining-the-future-of-advice/

Adam and Brett dive into some of the most misunderstood parts of Canadian retirement planning–RRSP taxes, TFSA rollover mistakes after death, and how to avoid losing your Old Age Security to clawbacks. They also unpack how inflation affects your go-go, slow-go, and no-go years, the right way to track withholding taxes, and why AI tools like ChatGPT still can’t replace a proper financial plan. Whether you’re retired or getting close, this episode is packed with insights to help you keep more of your money, avoid costly tax surprises, and approach retirement with confidence.

Got a question for a future episode? Leave it in the comments!

Advisor.ca Article: https://www.advisor.ca/partner-content/industry-insights/beneva-industry-insights/how-can-advisors-prepare-young-canadians-to-inherit-wealth/

In this episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett answer real viewer questions on retirement planning. They cover when to defer OAS to reduce taxes, whether a cash wedge actually helps your portfolio, and how to move funds from an RRSP or RRIF into a TFSA.

They also discuss CPP while working, health and dental coverage in retirement, DIY investing with a professional plan, using permanent life insurance to cover taxes, and what to do with a $1M inheritance.

Have a retirement question? Leave it in the comments – we might cover it in a future episode!

In this week’s episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett answer real retirement questions and unpack topics like evaluating financial products, understanding CPP timing, navigating RRIF taxes, and making informed pension and estate decisions. They break everything down in a clear and practical way that helps you apply the ideas to your own situation.

They also walk through viewer scenarios involving TFSA withdrawals, cash wedges, planning timelines, and how different income sources work together once you stop working.

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

In this bonus episode, Adam sits down with David Chilton, author of The Wealthy Barber and one of Canada’s most trusted voices in personal finance. Dave shares why he spent 16 months completely rewriting his bestselling book and what Canadians need to know about today’s financial realities.

They discuss rising living costs, housing challenges, RRSP and TFSA decisions, CPP timing, retirement withdrawals, estate planning, and the behavioural traps that can derail even the best intentions. If you grew up with The Wealthy Barber or simply want practical advice that actually sticks, this is a conversation you’ll enjoy.

The Wealthy Barber Podcast

Coversation with Preet

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DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

In this episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam Bornn and Brett Martinson tackle a variety of retirement-related questions, focusing on strategies for managing income, taxes, and investments in retirement. They discuss the implications of OAS clawback, the importance of RRSP contributions, and the nuances of withdrawing from RRSPs and TFSAs. The conversation also covers RRSP drawdown strategies, CPP dropout rules, and what strong financial planning deliverables should actually include.

Parallel Wealth planner, Matthew Dennis, joins the episode to discuss a common real-life challenge when couples have different spending goals and visions for retirement and how to navigate those conversations so both spouses feel heard and aligned.

Access Free Decumulation 101 Videos

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

Chapters

00:00 Intro and Overview

00:22 Is OAS Clawback a Good Problem

04:29 When RRSP Contributions Don’t Make Sense

07:25 Melting Down a Large RRSP

11:03 Are All in One ETFs Safe

14:34 Talking to Parents About Beneficiaries

19:57 TFSA Withdrawals and Attribution

22:35 CPP Dropout Rate Explained

24:53 Reducing RRIF Tax at Death

27:49 What Good Financial Plan Deliverables Include

34:49 High Income and Large RRIFs

38:39 Banks Ignoring Successor Forms

41:16 Spousal RRSP Contributions

44:16 Understanding Client Goals in Financial Planning

48:59 Year End Account Opening and Deadlines

51:40: Wrap-up

In this episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett answer viewer questions on RRIF withdrawals, TFSA rules, advisor restrictions, non-registered accounts, pension income splitting, LIRA unlocking, and more. They break down several common retirement planning scenarios Canadians face and explain how to navigate them with clarity and confidence.

Later in the episode, Parallel Wealth partner Kyle Martins joins to share insight on easing into retirement, including how part-time or semi-retirement work can fit into a financial plan.

Have a question for a future episode? Leave it in the comments.

Advisor.ca Article

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

Chapters

00:00 Intro & Overview

00:23 Advisor Restrictions on Financial Advice

03:54 RRIF vs LIF at Death

06:10 RRIF Withdrawals: Monthly vs Lump Sum

08:12 Managing Non-Registered Accounts in Retirement

15:16 Risks of Managing Money for Family and Friends

17:45 DB Pensions, Income Splitting, CPP/OAS Timing

21:22 TFSA GIC to High-Interest Account Transfer

24:03 Federal LIRA Rules, Unlocking, LRIF vs RLIF

29:06 Transferring LIRAs/LIFs to a Brokerage

31:57 TFSA Gains and CRA Penalties

37:16 Transitioning into Retirement

40:21 TFSA Cash Mistakes

44:12 Wrap-up

In this episode of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and fellow PWFG planner, Michael Barichello, answer more of your retirement questions. They cover what to do after maxing your RRSP and TFSA, how DC pensions work when you leave an employer, and the implications of naming TFSA beneficiaries or adding joint owners to accounts. They also touch on income splitting, GICs in a TFSA, overcontribution penalties, and what to know about locked-in funds. If you’ve wondered whether your accounts are set up the right way, this episode brings clarity and practical guidance. Leave your questions in the comments and we may feature them next time.

Advisor.ca Article

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

Chapters

00:00 Intro & Overview

00:53 Maxed RRSP & TFSA: What’s Next?

05:16 Defined Contribution Pension Options

08:12 Leaving Your TFSA to Children

11:32 End-of-Year TFSA Contributions

14:35 Assisting Elderly Parents with Finances

20:00 Transferring Company Pension to an RRSP or RRIF

22:12 Legacy Planning on a Defined Benefit Pension

25:28 RRSP Meltdown When Working to Age 70

29:33 GICs Inside a TFSA

33:50 Withdrawing from a LIF After Converting

35:32 RRSP vs TFSA Heading into Retirement

40:20 CPP and OAS Calculator in Today's Dollars

43:55 RRIF Withdrawals Article

48:11 TFSA Pitfall Tip

50:25 Wrap-Up

In this episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and financial planner Jon Kutney answer real retirement questions from Canadians navigating the transition from saving to spending. They cover practical retirement income decisions, common tax pitfalls, and how different accounts work together in retirement.

Topics include:

• Shifting from a saving mindset to a spending mindset in retirement

• RRSP to RRIF withdrawals and income-splitting after age 65

• How a cash wedge strategy differs from portfolio rebalancing

• Leaving money in a corporation vs contributing to an RRSP

• OAS clawback and when it matters

• Living off dividends vs structured drawdown strategies

• How retirement income choices affect estate planning and taxes

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

Chapters00:00 Intro and Overview
00:22 Multiple TFSAs With Different Institutions
01:05 How CRA Tracks TFSA Contributions and Withdrawals
03:07 Investing Retained Earnings Inside a Corporation
06:21 Why a Savings Mindset Can Hurt Retirement
10:36 RRSP to RRIF Timing for Income Splitting
13:01 Leave Money in a Corporation or Contribute to an RRSP?
17:37 Cash Wedge vs Portfolio Rebalancing
23:13 Should You Convert All of Your RRSP to a RRIF?
26:10 Using a TFSA to Offset RRIF Taxes
29:56 RRSP Withdrawals and OAS Clawback
35:18 Living Off Dividends vs RRSP Meltdown
38:58 How to Build a Tax Efficient Estate
41:29 Power of Attorney and Trusted Contacts in Retirement
46:56 Gifting Money to Family Using a TFSA
52:55 Wrap Up

This episode of Retirement Unpacked tackles the kinds of retirement questions Canadians actually ask once the details start to matter. Adam and Brett dig into TFSA rules, RRSP withdrawal timing, cash wedge strategies, and CPP decisions, focusing on the tradeoffs and tax considerations that can quietly shape retirement outcomes.

Key topics covered:• Moving non registered investments into a TFSA and tax implications• When to start RRSP or RRIF withdrawals• How cash wedge strategies work over time• Using all in one ETFs with a cash wedge• Structuring savings for early retirement flexibility• Supporting generational wealth without risking retirement

If you have a retirement question you would like answered in a future episode, submit it in the comments or reach out. We review them every week.

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

Chapters00:00 Intro and Overview00:23 Moving Non Registered Dividend Stocks Into a TFSA02:47 Investing Within a TFSA04:48 When to Begin RRSP or RRIF Withdrawals08:45 Do All In One ETFs Work With a Cash Wedge Strategy11:09 Managing a Cash Wedge Throughout Retirement18:29 Refilling a Cash Wedge After a Down Market20:30 Practical Steps to Take When Approaching Retirement25:19 Does Permanent Life Insurance as Retirement Income Make Sense31:13 Do Low Income Years Affect CPP Timing35:29 How to Estimate Your OAS Payment37:50 MERs vs Returns and Understanding Advisor Fees44:44 Can CPP Payments Be Shared Between Spouses48:03 Real World Planning Case on Retirement Flexibility52:59 How to Achieve Generational Wealth57:39 Wrap Up

Retirement planning does not stop once you leave work. In many ways, it becomes even more important. In this episode, Adam and Kyle answer real listener questions about RRSPs, RRIFs, income splitting, government benefits, and tax-efficient withdrawal planning in retirement.

Key moments include:
• RRIF income splitting when spouses are different ages
• Whether RRIFs and LIFs still pay dividends after conversion
• Handling RRSP withdrawals during a market decline
• RRSP to TFSA strategy before and during retirement
• CPP child rearing provision and how it works
• Leaving RRIFs to charity the right way

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or estate planning advice. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may differ from actual outcomes.

Please consult a qualified professional for personalized retirement, tax, or estate planning guidance. Parallel Wealth and Adam Bornn are not responsible for decisions made based on this content.

Timestamps00:00 Intro and Overview
00:25 RRIF Income Splitting With Different Ages
03:43 Dividends After Converting to a RRIF or LIF
05:06 Are Advisors Keeping RRSPs High on Purpose?
08:04 Is It Too Late To Fix Low-Tax Retirement Years?
11:25 RRSP Withdrawals During a Market Decline
15:45 RRSP to TFSA Strategy
20:30 RRIF Income Splitting and Tax Withholding
24:06 RRSP or TFSA for Severance
27:53 CPP Child-Rearing Provision
29:03 Accuracy of the PWL CPP Calculator
30:45 Leaving RRIFs to Charity
35:46 Spousal RRSP Attribution Trap
38:24 New TFSA Room and Recontributing Withdrawals
40:36 Wrap Up

In episode 18 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Matthew break down how to think about generational wealth, including how much of a buffer to hold before giving money to your children and the smartest ways to share it without waiting until you pass. They also dive into TFSA beneficiary designation planning, whether it makes sense to convert your RRSP to a RRIF before age 65, and much more! 

Later in the episode, one of our planners Mathieu Huneault joins to discuss an article he came across from Aaron Hector about whether you should name a U.S. or dual-citizen spouse as the successor holder or beneficiary of your TFSA. 

Have a question about anything retirement related? Drop a comment, and we’ll try to cover it in a future episode! 

️ Read Aaron Hector's article hereTimestamps 

00:00 Intro 

00:36 Contributing inheritance to spouse's TFSA 

02:31 Buffer to hold before thinking of generational wealth 

07:03 Smart ways to share wealth with children 

10:13 Tax implications of passing principal residence after death 

13:35 Can you name a successor holder and beneficiary? 

16:34 What happens to spouse's TFSA limit when I pass away? 

18:50 How to plan when there's an age gap 

23:47 Any reason to convert RRSP to RRIF before 65? 

28:43 Factors to consider for partial RRSP conversion in early 60s 

34:54 How much should you be saving? 

40:00 Foreign pension income splitting 

43:48 Spending in the go-go, slow-go, and no-go phases 

52:34 Beneficiary designation of U.S. spouse on TFSA 

1:00:29 Keeping employer healthcare plan in retirement 

In episode 19 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett break down what age your RRIF should be fully depleted by, how to have conversations about generational wealth with your parents, why having a cash wedge and protecting yourself against the market is critical to actually enjoy the retirement you've worked so hard for, and much more. 

Later on in the episode, one of our planners Jon Kutney joins to discuss smart debt and strategies to potentially make your debt tax-deductible. 

Chapters

00:00 Intro 

00:21 Better or worse time to transfer RRSP to RRIF 

3:22 What age should RRIF be fully melted down 

5:20 LIF maximum based on the account's performance 

8:31 Retirement planning for a spouse with dementia 

13:10 What to do when actual returns differ from your plan 

19:38 Talking about generational wealth with your parents 

27:24 Passing wealth to financially irresponsible grandkids 

31:12 Clarifying the cash wedge 

38:07 Drawing down RRIF based on life expectancy 

40:16 Retiring early, how should I drawdown RRIF, TFSA, and non-reg? 

45:14 Smart debt discussion 

50:38 Estate planning with age gap and blended family 

In episode 20 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Jon dive into CPP survivor benefits and whether delaying CPP can impact your survivor payout, the tax implications of moving investments from a non-registered account to your TFSA or RRSP, whether it makes sense to keep your emergency fund in a chequing account, and much more. 

Later on in the episode, one of our planners, Gord Manzer, joins to discuss car accident benefits in retirement and how upcoming changes in Ontario, including many of the mandatory benefits becoming optional on July 1, could affect retirees. 

Chapters

00:00 Intro 

00:43 Balance a large non-registered and RRSP 

4:50 Understanding CPP survivor benefit 

12:32 Laddered GICs for cash wedge 

15:43 Moving investments from non-registered to TFSA and RRSP 

18:44 PWL CPP estimate vs. Service Canada 

23:43 Why do we always delay CPP to 70? 

27:39 Should your emergency fund sit in a chequing account? 

36:30 Selling rental properties with RRSP meltdown in mind 

40:35 Why delay CPP and OAS when you'll get clawback? 

44:03 Car accident benefits in retirement 

50:27 Jon's favourite song right now 

51:30 Article review: Kevin O'Leary's formula to becoming a millionaire 

In episode 21 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Michael break down a number of questions we have gotten about the cashflow wedge. 

They discuss whether a 75/25 investment can function as a cashflow wedge, whether it makes sense to only withdraw the minimum from your wedge in down markets, and how asset allocation and cashflow wedges should be handled across different accounts like RRIFs, LIFs, TFSAs, and non-registered accounts. The episode also covers the CPP post-retirement benefit, planning for real estate that continues to increase in value during retirement, and much more.  

Later in the episode, one of our planners, Peter Filippakis, joins to discuss planning considerations when there’s an age gap between partners, and the additional factors retirees need to think through in those situations. 

Chapters

00:00 Intro 

00:37 What is the Post Retirement Benefit? 

1:59 How gradual retirement in early 60s affects CPP 

3:34 Should DC pension balance be added to RRSP? 

4:54 Use a 75%/25% investment for cashflow wedge? 

7:29 What happens to DCPP when you retire? 

9:40 Can you reinvest dividends in RRIF? 

10:55 Withdraw minimum from LIF/RIF in down markets? 

15:33 Planning for real estate increasing in value in retirement 

17:43 Asset allocation & cashflow wedge across your accounts 

20:24 Do you still need bonds if you have cashflow wedge? 

23:26 Planning when there's an age gap 

In episode 22 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Kyle break down questions you should be asking your financial planner and also how to ask to have your fees reduced. They also touch on factors to consider before setting up a spousal RRSP, should you start CPP early and invest it, and much more. 

Later in the episode, one of our planners, Paul Grenier joins to discuss whether annuities make sense for retirees in 2026. 

Brett's book recommendation from John De Goey

Adam's video on investing your CPP payment

Chapters

00:00 Intro 

1:08 Drawdown with RRIF and corporate holdings 

5:14 Planning after taking CPP and OAS early 

8:54 Factors to consider for spousal RRSPs 

12:28 Questions to ask your financial planner 

18:03 Tax implications of gifting money to children 

21:43 How to ask to reduce your fees 

30:41 Should you start CPP early and invest it? 

37:23 Why are joint investment accounts hard to find? 

40:20 Is OAS clawback based on individual or couple income? 

43:39 How to reduce tax on sale of investment property 

49:40 Discussion on annuities 

56:08 Does delaying OAS increase years of eligibility? 

In episode 23 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett break down tax planning strategies for high net worth retirees, how non-registered accounts can become a liability in retirement, how to create a retirement budget and plan for unexpected expenses, tax implications for spousal income transfers, and much more.

Later in the episode, one of our planners, Mathieu Huneault, joins to discuss what to consider if your kids are finishing school and you still have a balance in your RESP.

More information on LIRAs HERE

Adam's article in The Globe and Mail HERE

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:30 Does tax planning matter at the top marginal tax rate?

4:45 Drawdown order with LIRA, TFSA, RRSP, and holding company

9:58 Managing cash wedge in non-registered account

14:31 Do you need RRSP room to unlock a DCPP?

15:16 Do we offer a 'light' plan if you're 10 years from retirement?

18:08 Survivor benefit: Does the deceased need to have been collecting CPP?

20:00 How to create a retirement budget

27:08 Building a cash wedge for a LIF

29:46 Tax implications for spousal income transfers

37:26 What to do with your RESP when kids finish school

46:49 Tax filing if you're expecting a T3

In episode 24 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Matthew break down rate of return assumptions and what to do if the market significantly outperforms your plan, why you should drawdown your RRSP/RRIF even if it means forgoing future returns, cashflow wedge planning with a defined benefit pension plan, RRSP meltdown risk if your spouse unexpectedly passes away, and much more.

Later in the episode, one of our planners, Michael Barichello, joins to discuss fees in the financial industry, helping you understand how to weigh the costs of a advisor vs. the value they provide.Chapters:

0:00 Intro

00:35 How does RRIF drawdown affect your tax bracket?

3:46 Rate of return assumptions: When markets outperform your plan

12:17 LIF small balance allowance

16:37 Why bother withdrawing from your RRSP/RRIF?

22:49 Spousal RRSP/RRIF attribution rules

26:59 How does life insurance affect planning?

33:47 Cashflow wedge planning with DB plan

40:21 Strong returns increased LIF max. Should I withdraw max?

46:05 RRSP meltdown risk if spouse unexpectedly passes away early

55:02 Can you request withholding tax on RRIF withdrawals?

59:38 How to think about fees and value in financial planning

1:07:48 How to prepare for a meeting with your financial planner

In episode 25 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Paul break down how OAS clawback works year to year, whether it still makes sense to delay CPP to 70 if you stop contributing early, the best place to park money when you don't need the mandated withdrawals, and much more.

Later in the episode, one of our planners, Martin Goudreault, joins to discuss a couple client success stories, and the impact that a retirement plan can have for Canadians.Chapters:

0:00 Intro

1:00 What happens if you die before you start your pension?
4:37 Can OAS clawback vary from year to year?
7:47 Planning around a large account size gap between spouses
10:34 Stopped contributing to CPP early: Does delaying still make sense?
14:08 Best ways to deplete RESPs
18:53 Moving money from LIF to RRSP
22:42 Best place to park money when you don't need it
26:35 In-kind transfers from RRIF to TFSA
29:42 Delaying CPP to 70: What if spouse passes early?
33:55 Client success stories
38:27 Warning: Firms are cutting planning, but not fees

In episode 26 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett break down future TFSA contribution limit projections, how OAS clawback can affect withdrawal strategy, whether or not CPP and OAS can cover your no-go phase, how much Canadians believe they need to retire, and a much more.
Later in the episode, one of our planners, Gord Manzer, joins to discuss the prevalence of AI powered financial scams, and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:17 Future TFSA contribution limit growth
3:54 Cashflow wedge with passive income investing

8:00 In-kind transfer from RRIF to TFSA/non-reg

14:26 Does OAS clawback affect withdrawal strategy?

19:43 Will CPP and OAS cover no-go phase?

25:00 Non-registered vs. universal life policy

33:15 Do you have to start withdrawing from LIF right away?

34:35 Small balance provision for LIFs

42:11 How to avoid tax installments

46:24 AI powered financial scams

59:42 Do you need $1.7M to retire?

In episode 27 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Jon break down what percentage drop in the market should trigger using your cashflow wedge, whether or not you should start CPP at 60 if you've already maxed it out, what to do when your RRSP has outperformed your planned withdrawals, whether or not you're actually better off with a cashflow wedge, and much more.
Later in the episode, one of our planners, Peter Filippakis, joins to discuss the importance of using reasonable assumptions in your plan.

Our clips channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ParallelWealthClips

0:00 Intro
0:16 What % drop should trigger cashflow wedge?
3:18 Maxed out CPP: Should we start at 60?
6:30 Drawdown strategy to help out kids
9:56 Do spousal RRSP dividends count as contributions?
12:43 RRSP returns outpacing my planned withdrawals
16:00 Does cashflow wedge underperform?
24:49 Spousal RRSP vs. RRSP: Which to drawdown first?
31:05 Process when transferring LIF to another institution
34:07 Importance of reasonable assumptions in planning

In episode 28 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Michael break down if children receive any CPP benefit if their parents pass away, when spousal loans make sense, why it's normal to be nervous heading into retirement, if there is any reason to convert your RRSP to a RRIF before 71, and much more.
Later in the episode, one of our planners, Paul Grenier, joins to discuss how OAS calculated if you haven't spent a full 40 years in Canada by age 65, and what the effects of delaying are.Chapters0:00 Intro
0:25 Do children receive any CPP benefit if parents pass away?
2:11 When do spousal loans make sense?
8:51 75% stocks/25% guaranteed return for cashflow wedge?
12:35 Is it normal to be nervous entering retirement?
18:27 Is QPP an option on PWL calculator?
19:46 Any reason to convert RRSP to RRIF before 71?
27:46 Actual dividend amount or grossed up amount for corporations?
30:10 Capital gains consequences if put on house deed?
40:50 OAS calculation when you haven't spent full 40 years in Canada
45:48 Spousal RRSP to RRIF transfers

In episode 29 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Matthew break down whether delaying OAS is actually worth it, if one spouse should start CPP early when both have the max benefit, how to think about the RRSP meltdown in the real world where markets are volatile, and whether carrying a joint universal life policy through retirement makes sense.
Later in the episode, Kyle Martins joins to discuss the process of transferring your investment accounts from one institution to another, and how it's a lot easier than you might think.

FP Canada's rate of return assumptions

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0:00 Intro
0:10 Should you delay OAS?
2:56 If both spouses have max CPP, should one start early?
6:12 Retiring at 60: Do you have to keep contributing to CPP?
8:51 When should you replenish cashflow wedge?
13:09 RRSP meltdown with volatile markets
21:47 Does savings in US dollars change withdrawal strategy?
24:34 Should you retain joint universal life policy through retirement?
29:26 Should you have debt, should you get term insurance?
33:43 Bank says I can't withdraw more than the RRIF minimum
35:57 If you only have CPP & OAS, will you qualify for GIS?
39:37 How to transfer accounts between institutions
44:04 Successor vs. beneficiary on a TFSA

In episode 30 of Retirement Unpacked, Kyle and Mathieu break down what age you should think about starting an RRSP meltdown, whether there's a need for a cashflow wedge if you don't need the money, how couples should plan around long-term care costs, planning considerations for singles, and much more.
Later in the episode, Gord Manzer joins to discuss how AI is impacting retirement planning, and whether you should be trusting it for financial advice.

AI's impact on financial and retirement planning: https://money.ca/managing-money/retirement/should-canadians-trust-ai-for-retirement-planning

Subscribe to our clips YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwY3ZvNc_qCU-WuIKh-aulA

Chapters

0:00 Intro
0:19 What age should you start an RRSP meltdown?
4:08 Can you move RRSP/RRIF investments to other accounts?

6:00 Do you need a cashflow wedge if you don't need the money?

10:19 Planning for long-term care if only one spouse needs it

15:47 Can you pause CPP to start an RRSP meltdown?

19:41 Planning considerations for single retirees

24:10 Putting your kids on cottage title to avoid tax

28:22 What income qualifies for income splitting?

32:39 Is TFSA transferred tax-free to beneficiaries upon death?

34:32 Start CPP early to pay down mortgage?

40:12 Should you trust AI for financial and retirement advice?

48:55 RRIF/LIF minimums with private credit & equity investments

In episode 31 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Gord  break down if it makes sense to delay your OAS, what happens to CPP if you retire early, the pros and cons of renting vs. holding onto your house in retirement, when income splitting is beneficial, and much more.
Later in the episode, Peter Filippakis joins us to discuss what future changes to OAS could look like and how you can plan ahead if those changes are a concern.

Subscribe to our clips YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwY3ZvNc_qCU-WuIKh-aulA

Chapters

0:00 Intro

0:24 Does it make sense to delay OAS?

3:20 Delaying OAS when you've lived in Canada less than 40 years

5:00 Retiring at 55, what happens to CPP?

8:41 Delaying CPP is pushing me into OAS Clawback

11:53 Renting vs. holding onto the house in retirement

15:36 Should you pay cash for cars?

19:00 When is income splitting beneficial?

21:59 Do you need insurance to cover your debt?

25:00 Trigger to use your cashflow wedge

28:30 Potential changes to OAS

35:09 - Upsizing in retirement

In episode 32 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Peter  break down fee-for-service vs. ongoing financial planning, the assumptions behind your CPP estimate, how to reduce large capital gains in retirement, renting vs. owning in retirement, probate planning, and more.

Later in the episode, Paul Grenier joins to discuss growing vs. protecting your wealth in retirement, and why striving for more doesn’t necessarily give you greater peace of mind.

Subscribe to our clips YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwY3ZvNc_qCU-WuIKh-aulA

Chapters

0:00 Intro

0:45 Fee-for-service planning vs. ongoing financial planning

6:00 Clarification around CPP estimates

10:19 What Safeguards Exist With Canadian Investment Firms?

17:00 Nominal vs. real dollars

20:36 How to meltdown large capital gain in retirement

25:35 Renting vs. buying a condo in retirement

33:43 Cashflow wedge planning when you have a pension

39:30 Probate planning

44:45 RDSP planning in retirement

50:38 Growing vs. protecting wealth in retirement

59:31 Dangers of chasing higher returns to meet goals

In episode 33 of Retirement Unpacked, Matthew and Kyle break down your options for large lump sums later in life, whether or not it makes sense to convert your RRSP before you retire, what rate of return you should use in your plan, how to coordinate RRSP and TFSA withdrawals from 60 to 65, and much more.

Later in the episode, Mathieu Huneault joins to discuss a unique situation where it could make sense to contribute to a spousal RRSP if you're over 71.

Subscribe to our clips YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwY3ZvNc_qCU-WuIKh-aulA

0:00 Intro
0:36 What to do with large lump sums later in life
7:45 Should I convert my RRSP before I retire?
11:40 What rate of return should I use in my plan?
16:20 Retirement planning with a holding company
20:32 In-kind donations with donor advised funds
24:34 Foreign pension planning
28:03 Planning around a small spousal RRSP and large RRSP
32:14 RRSP & TFSA withdrawals from 60 to 65
36:11 How to avoid tax installments
42:06 Cashflow wedge needed with a defined benefit plan?
45:46 Contributions to spousal RRSP after 71
51:38 How is the pension jurisdiction set?

In episode 34 of Retirement Unpacked, Michael and Paul discuss when it doesn’t make sense to delay your CPP and OAS, strategies to reduce taxes both during your lifetime and at death, estate planning considerations for blended families, and much more.
Later in the episode, Martin Goudreault joins to discuss why the shift from saving to spending can be challenging, and shares practical steps to help make that transition easier.

Subscribe to our clips YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwY3ZvNc_qCU-WuIKh-aulA

Chapters

0:00 Intro
0:33 When should you start CPP & OAS early?
3:40 How to pay less tax while alive
6:26 When is the my CRA TFSA number accurate?
8:57 How to avoid large tax on estate
12:50 Should you use whole life insurance to cover estate taxes?
16:05 Does an RRSP meltdown make sense at the highest tax bracket?
18:44 Why do I still owe taxes?
21:43 How to minimize estate taxes with RRIF drawdown
24:09 Should you draw more out of RRIF to income split?
26:30 Estate planning with a blended family
31:07 How to transition from a saver to a spender
40:43 Helping the next generation save in an FHSA

In episode 35 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Jon break down RRIF successor annuitant vs. beneficiary designations, if it makes sense to do an RRSP meltdown if you have a large RRIF,TFSA, and non-registered account, whether or not you can contribute to CPP after you retire, how to determine the jurisdiction of your pension and much more.

Later in the episode, Gord Manzer joins to discuss the importance of organizing your financial world before you pass away, so your loved ones aren't left searching for documents, passwords, accounts, and other important financial details during an already difficult time.

Chapters0:00 Intro0:12 RRIF successor annuitant vs. beneficiary​4:41 Why meltdown a large RRSP?​11:10 Income splitting tax implications​16:13 RRSP matching while withdrawing from RRIF​20:18 Can you pay into CPP after retiring?​23:04 How does principal residence exemption work?​28:42 What is crystallization?​34:12 How to determine jurisdiction of a pension​39:33 Organizing your financial world before death​46:24 Importance of saving outside of your RRSP 

In episode 36 of Retirement Unpacked, Kyle and Peter break down why having zero tax years in retirement can be detrimental to your plan, how retirees can protect themselves against inflation, how to plan around large capital gains in retirement, the best timeframe to judge your investment returns, and much more.
Later in the episode, Matthew Dennis joins to discuss the smith manoeuvre, the dangers of it, and when it makes sense for Canadians.

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:18 Why are zero tax years bad?

3:39 How to protect against inflation in retirement

12:37 Spousal attribution rules around non-registered accounts

19:57 Should I cash out my entire RRSP?

22:45 How to offset a large capital gain in your 70s

28:35 The best timeframe to judge your investment returns

33:14 Managing inflation in retirement

37:54 Offsetting rental property sale with RRSP

42:21 When should you consider life insurance?

50:52 When does the smith manoeuvre make sense?

57:37 How to free up funds in a LIRA

In episode 37 of Retirement Unpacked, Adam and Brett break down if it makes sense to withdraw more from your RRIF than you actually need, why your cashflow wedge should not be outside of your registered accounts, how to plan around an inheritance, RRSP and RRIF strategies if you are single, and much more.
Later in the episode, Maria Dawes from Capstone Asset Management joins to discuss values-based investing, what it is, how to align your investing with your values and worldview, and the key questions to ask your advisor if this is something that is important to you.Chapters

0:00 Intro
0:16 Withdraw more from your RRIF than you need?

3:39 Does income splitting have to be 50/50?

7:10 Use spousal RRSP vs. collecting GIS

11:05 Why can't your cashflow wedge be outside your registered accounts?

15:45 Borrow from home equity to max out TFSA?

19:28 How to plan for inheritances

25:10 What is the benefit to lowering the OAS clawback threshold?

30:34 Should you delay OAS to avoid the clawback?

38:40 RRSP/RRIF strategies for singles

42:45 DB survivor benefit & spousal drawdown timing

48:39 What is values investing with Maria Dawes

56:13 What are you really paying in fees?

In episode 38 of Retirement Unpacked, Brett and Gord break down options if you are paying high fees and not getting any advice, the attribution rules around joint non-registered accounts, what age you can split your RRIF income with your spouse, whether it makes sense to ladder your income if you're concerned about long-term care, if it makes sense to start CPP early so you can collect the PRB and invest your payments, and much more.
Later in the episode, Mathieu Huneault   joins to discuss a recent client situation where a couple sold their home and moved into their cabin full-time, and the planning considerations that came with it. We break down how the principal residence exemption combined with RRSP contributions were used together to help create a more tax-efficient plan.Chapters

0:00 Intro
0:46 Paying high fees and getting no advice

7:10 Joint non-registered attribution rules

12:48 DIY planning software

18:17 CPP disability calculation

21:33 What age can you split RRIF income

24:44 How to dispose of an RESP

32:37 How to calculate probate

35:38 How to plan for long-term care

40:05 Can you move money from LIF to spousal RRSP tax-free?

43:11 Taking CPP early, collecting the PRB and investing it

52:17 Principal Residence Exemption planning

1:01:25 Budgeting for trips

In episode 39 of Retirement Unpacked, Matthew and Peter break down how to gift money early from your non-registered account in a tax-efficient way, where you should invest after maxing out your RRSP and TFSA, how your RRSP meltdown strategy should change when markets overperform or underperform your plan, HOOPP pensions, and much more.
Later in the episode, Martin Goudreault  joins to walk through a real-life case study involving a family cottage, joint ownership, and the tax and estate planning implications that come with transferring property between generations.Chapters

0:00 Intro
0:20 How to gift money early tax-efficiently

4:56 Trigger capital gains pre-retirement when in a low tax bracket?

8:47 Where should you invest after RRSP & TFSA?

12:25 Should you adjust RRSP meltdown if the market is down?

15:44 Adjusting your drawdown strategy when markets outperform plan

21:24 Does an RRSP meltdown make sense if you have large non-registered account?

25:15 Do you need a cashflow wedge if you have a pension?

30:53 Pension +  RRSP meltdown strategy

33:10 Understanding HOOPP pensions

42:02 Considerations when commuting your pension

45:32 How joint ownership affects cottage taxes (case study)

54:08 Should you withdraw monthly in retirement?