Executive Summary

Canadians will soon get a boost when it comes to saving for their first home. Starting in April of 2023, the Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA) will be available to those over the age of 18 who have dreams of owning a home.  This account is part of a campaign promise by the Liberals in the last election.  Here is a run down of what we know so far and discuss with your financial advisor for further details. 

What You Need to Know

The FHSA will allow Canadians over the age of 18 to save up to $40,000. Eligible taxpayers can contribute up to $8000 a year to the account and this amount can be carried forward into future years if not used.  These funds need to be used within 15 years of opening the account or before the age of 71 (whichever is earliest).  For simplicities sake, the investments available in the FHSA will be the same as the TFSA.   To open an account, you must be:  

1) Canadian Resident

2) Over the age of 18 

3) You can't own a home at any time in the year the account is opened or during the previous four calendar years. 

The inner workings of the FHSA combines the best of the Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA).  The contributions are tax deductible, and the money grows inside the account tax free.  The money can then be withdrawn from the account without tax penalty.

The FHSA is unique because funds must be used to purchase a home.  Any funds that are not used to purchase a home can be transferred to an RRSP or RRIF account on a rollover basis, and the RRSP rules will apply going forward. It is important to note that transfers do not impact your RRSP contribution limits. If purchasing your first home is one of your goals, discuss the FHSA with your financial advisor.

Information contained in this publication has been compiled from sources believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made by MRG Wealth Management Inc., or any other person or business as to its accuracy, completeness, or correctness.  Nothing in this publication constitutes legal, accounting or tax advice or individually tailored investment advice. This material is prepared for general circulation and has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.