Approaching retirement is undoubtedly an exciting time for many, as their decades-long journey of diligent savings and hard work is rewarded with new and exciting pursuits. However, over the past few years, the feeling of excitement has been dampened by economic uncertainty around interest rates, inflation and housing markets. This is especially true for those who are balancing the desire to help their children get ahead financially, while also ensuring they have their retirement plans well in hand.
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With a wealth of information online and decades of your own experience saving for retirement, you may wonder why you need a plan at all. But even if your own financial picture is secure, there are benefits to planning ahead.
含羞草研究社淚f you anticipate that you含羞草研究社檒l have excess funds when you pass away, your estate may have to pay significant taxes. It may make sense to distribute some gifts to loved ones while you含羞草研究社檙e still alive to see them enjoyed,含羞草研究社� Lindemann says.
Leaving a legacy to those you love
If parents approaching retirement age aren含羞草研究社檛 worried about their own future, they may be worrying about their children.
含羞草研究社淭here may be enough in your savings account to pay the downpayment on your child含羞草研究社檚 first home, but it含羞草研究社檚 important to be sure you can afford it. If you face a health emergency, there含羞草研究社檚 no guarantee your children will be able to give the money back.含羞草研究社�
Lindemann has worked with members who thought they could give $200,000 to a family member, but when they crunch the numbers it turns out their maximum is much less.
Gifting property
含羞草研究社淕ifting property comes with its own tax implications. Your primary residence is exempt from capital gains, but you含羞草研究社檙e still required to take into consideration fair market value, and there may be property transfer taxes.含羞草研究社�
If they have contribution room available, giving to your children or grandchildren含羞草研究社檚 TFSA, RRSP or RESP can be a great way to leave a lasting legacy 含羞草研究社� and avoid probate when you pass away..
Communicate
No matter what you decide, Lindemann says open communication is key.
含羞草研究社淲hen you have multiple children, transparency is important. If you have a child that has a greater need for a financial gift than another, the last thing you want to do is keep their siblings in the dark and have it come up later once mom and dad pass away. Too often we forget about leaving behind this type of family legacy when we are looking at financial gifting.含羞草研究社�
Every person is different, and that means every financial plan needs to be unique. A solid financial plan that considers your future income and projected spending can help you decide if you can afford to make your desired gift without impacting your desired lifestyle.
gifting property - tax implications - refer to tax accountant and lawyer