Comparisons
6 articles in Comparisons. Each verified against an official source and linked to a calculator.
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RRSP vs Pension Plan: Trade-offs of Workplace Pension Membership
DB pensions provide guaranteed income with employer contributions and longevity pooling. RRSPs offer control and portability. Most workers benefit from joining a workplace pension when offered.
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CPP vs OAS: Differences, Eligibility, and Timing
CPP is contribution-based; OAS is residency-based. CPP can start age 60, OAS only at 65. OAS is income-tested (clawback at $95,323 for 2026); CPP is not. Both can be deferred to 70 for permanent bonus.
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Salary vs Dividend for Owner-Managers: Which to Pay Yourself
Salary creates RRSP room and CPP credits but costs both halves of CPP. Dividend has no CPP but no RRSP room either. Most owner-managers benefit from a mix: salary up to YMPE then dividends.
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TFSA vs RRSP: Which Account to Use
TFSA wins for lower-income earners (~$50K and under) and those facing GIS clawback. RRSP wins for higher earners (35%+ marginal rate now, lower in retirement). Marginal-rate test is the core decision.
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FHSA vs Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP): Which to Use for a First Home
Use FHSA before HBP for first home: tax-deductible contributions + tax-free withdrawals + no repayment. Combined maximum: $100,000 per person ($40K FHSA + $60K HBP) toward down payment.
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Fixed vs Variable Mortgage: How to Choose
Fixed mortgage locks rate for the term; variable tracks prime. Variable saves on average historically but exposes you to rate rises. Decision depends on discount size, term length, and risk tolerance.