EP # 162 | Understanding RRIF Withdrawal Rules and Building a Tax-Smart Retirement Plan

  Most retirees view mandatory RIF withdrawals as a tax trap—but what if they're actually a strategic advantage?  In this episode, Joe Curry explains how smart RIF planning can reduce lifetime taxes, protect OAS and government benefits, and even help grow wealth. Learn how to use income smoothing, tax brackets, and the three-bucket strategy to master retirement income planning. Key Takeaways ·       RIF withdrawals aren't a punishment—they're part of a tax-deferred system designed for the decumulation phase of retirement. ·       Starting RRSP withdrawals early can smooth out income and prevent OAS clawbacks later in life. ·       The pension tax credit offers up to $2,000 in RIF withdrawals tax-free after age 65. ·       Using the three-bucket strategy—pre-tax, tax-free, and taxable—helps optimize annual withdrawals and minimize taxes. ·       Annual reviews are essential to adapt your withdrawal strategy as tax rules, income, and benefits change. —------------------------------------------------------------ Ready to take the next step?  Identify your retirement income style with the RISA questionnaire at  https://account.myrisaprofile.com/invitation-link/88QG1TMQ12  Want a retirement plan that adapts as your life evolves? Discover our True Wealth Roadmap — a step-by-step process to align your finances with your ideal retirement. Learn more at https://matthewsandassociates.ca/our-process/   Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more simplified retirement planning insights! —------------------------------------------------------------   ABOUT JOE  CURRY Joseph Curry, also known as Joe, is the host of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Canada's fastest-growing retirement planning podcast, where he provides accessible, in-depth financial advice. As the owner and lead financial planner at Matthews + Associates in Peterborough, Ontario, he is committed to helping people secure both financial stability and purpose in retirement. His mission is to ensure people can sleep soundly knowing they have a solid plan in place, covering both financial and lifestyle aspects of retirement. A Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, he values true wealth as more than money—it's about creating meaningful experiences with loved ones and fostering opportunities for the future.  You can reach out to Joe through: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curryjoe Website: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/ https://matthewsandassociates.ca/  https://www.facebook.com/RetirementPlanningSimplified/  ABOUT RETIREMENT PLANNING SIMPLIFIED Founded in 2022, its mission is to empower people to plan for retirement confidently, focusing not only on finances but also on a meaningful life. RPS wants everyone to have access to simple, reliable tools that reflect their values and priorities, helping them create True Wealth—the freedom to do what they love with those they love. By simplifying retirement planning and aligning it with the retiree's purpose, RPS aims to support building a retirement that feels fulfilling and secure. To know more about RPS you can visit the links below: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retirement-planning-simplified/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retirement_planning_simplified Podcast/Blog: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/blog Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningsimplified     —------------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are those of Joseph Curry, a registrant of Aligned Capital Partners Inc. (ACPI), and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. This video is for informational purposes only and not intended to be personalized investment advice. The views expressed are opinions of Joseph Curry and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. Content is prepared for general circulation and information contained does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any investment fund, security or other product or service.

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