News & Resources

Scotiabank: Fewer Canadians Plan to Make RSP Contributions This Year

Jan. 6, 2014
1 mins
Modern seniors working at home

Only 3 in 10 Canadians plan to contribute to an RSP plan this year according to a Scotiabank survey.

This is an 8% decrease from the 39% who made contributions both in 2012 and 2011. Additionally, Scotiabank's Annual Investment Poll reports that three-quarters of respondents (74%) who hold RSPs and consider contributing more, say lack of affordability is top reason for not increasing payment amounts, compared to 84% in 2012.

The study also shows that 40% of Canadian RSP holders have withdrawn funds from their plans, up 4% from 2012. The top reason offered for making withdrawals is to take advantage of the Home Buyers' Plan to buy (or build) a first home (16% vs. 15% in 2012). Covering day-to-day living expenses (8% vs. 5% in 2012) is the next most common reason followed by paying down debt (8% vs. 6% in 2012) and doing home renovations (5% vs. 3% in 2012).

"With the new year underway and the RSP contribution deadline (March 3) less than two months away, we want to encourage Canadians to meet with a financial advisor," says Mike Henry, Senior Vice President of Retail Payments, Deposits and Lending at Scotiabank.

Henry adds: "RSPs continue to be an important and tax-effective way to maximize retirement savings. If affordability is an issue, a financial advisor can help identify ways to make that all-important contribution, big or small, as well as develop a financial plan to help achieve retirement goals."

Cliff Boodoosingh


Latest life insurance articles

Do you need life insurance? A primer for Canadians
Life insurance isn’t a one-size-fits all solution. But if you have dependents, it can be an important financial safety net for those you love.
Learn More
7 mins read
Why life insurance should be part of estate planning for new parents
Life insurance is one of the best ways new parents can protect their family and help loved ones in the event of your unexpected death.
Learn More
5 mins read
10 Myths About Life Insurance Busted – Some May Surprise You
You may be young with no kids and no mortgage. Life insurance is for someone older, who has dependents right? Wrong. Let’s debunk life insurance myths and learn why everyone needs some form of coverage.
Learn More
6 mins read

Subscribe to our newsletter

Stay on top of our latest offers, relevant news and tips!

Thanks for joining!

You'll be hearing from us shortly - stay tuned.