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Welcome to the Synergy Solutions Centre!

Just click on the one of the questions below and you'll get a simple answer. If the question you have doesn't appear on this list, feel free to ask us and we'll be happy to help you in any way we can.

You can "search" through the questions and answers by entering keyword(s) into our search box. Or you can categorize the questions listed by a category name, such as borrowing or wealth services, by selecting one of the categories from the drop-down menu from our main page. You can also comment on each of these questions by providing a comment on our answer, where we could provide additional answers.





Wealth Services

RRSP Tutorial Video: Got Questions About RRSPs? Or Retirement Planning?

Whether you know a little, or even a lot, about RRSPs or retirement planning, good advice is one thing that everyone benefits from. This RRSP Tutorial Video provides some basic advice on RRSPs, what you can do and how RRSPs could benefit you.   more...

I would like to open a savings account for my grandchildren, why do we need a social insurance number for them and can i keep them all under my name, and wouod like to get the best interest for them so when they graduate they will have money to help them with their education or whatever they would like to do after they graduate

The savings account you are referring to that requires a social insurance number (SIN) is the Registered Education Saving Plan (RESP). An RESP follows guidelines that are determined by the federal government. For instance, an RESP eligible person must be a resident of Canada and have a SIN in order...   more...

A person in their 40s wonders what the best financial strategies are at this stage in their life. They know they are at their peak earning years during their lifetime but where is the best place to put this money? Retirement? Education? Loans? Savings? So many decisions and it seems like so little time.

When you re in our 40 s, you have the dual advantages of life experiences and life expectancy. In the case of this person, they have a good idea of what to expect in terms of their earning power. They also have established themselves in terms of children, of their home, and their lifestyle. It s t...   more...

A younger couple is curious about Tax Free Savings Accounts (TFSA). They’re wondering about how this account really works, and if it is really worthwhile as an investment tool.

When the Tax Free Savings Account came into effect in January 2009, it was heralded as an excellent new financial opportunity for Canadians. Under the current rules, every individual 18 years of age and older with a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) can deposit a maximum of $5,000 per year into t...   more...

Our new baby girl is just turning 5 months old and we want to know what is the best type of account to open for her future and her educational future. Thank you.

A new baby girl…how exciting! Congratulations, and good on you for starting early to consider her financial future. The best savings option is the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). An RESP offers flexible deposit options…you can make one lump sum payment per calendar year (prior to Decemb...   more...

A single man who is about to turn 50 has enjoyed a life of travel, fancy cars and fine wine. In other words, he has “lived for today”. That means he has not saved for tomorrow, and now he is worried that it is now too late to start saving for retirement.

Remember the Chinese proverb: The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The next best time is today. It s always smart to put away money for the time in your life when you are not earning, or unable to earn, the same income you currently enjoy. And since you re now looking ahead, realize that...   more...

I am a greenhorn about the stock market but I am interested in investing in it. How do I go about doing this and how will I know the best companies to invest in?

There is an educational tab on Credential Direct s website, http://www.credentialdirect.com/ , that has an area on learning the basics and a link to The Investor Learning Centre which is Canada s first independent, not-for-profit organization solely dedicated to providing non-promotional investm...   more...

My Fiance and I are expecting a baby in December, and we would like to set up an account for him. What kind of accounts do you have for children and which would be the best one to set up?

You have several options available to you. You may even decide to approach this from a couple of angles. Firstly, saving for the short-term needs of your child and, secondly, looking to his future education funding. Since he will not be requiring a chequing account in the near future, the monies...   more...

A young professional woman, who has just started her career, bought a condominium. She also is thinking of starting an RRSP, but wonders if maybe the best thing is to pay off her mortgage first, before investing for retirement.

As with many good financial strategies, this isn t really a case of either-or. The best plan is to work within a comfortable budget that enables you to make your mortgage payments and take advantage of the benefits of RRSP investment. The great news is that this could very well shorten the time yo...   more...

How can Credential Direct offer stock purchases in their TFSA account but other investing accounts do not?

Each company that offers a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) will offer different product. Synergy Credit Union as an example offers a variety of TFSA eligible products: cash, iSave or 1-7 year term deposits. Other companies such as Credential Asset Management offer mutual funds*, and brokerage firms...   more...

My husband and I are expecting our first child in another two months. We know what it’s like to live with the burden of big student loans – and we want to avoid that for our children. We want to establish an education fund for them. However, we don’t have a lot of money left at the end of the month.

The two principal factors in saving are time and money. Fortunately, you have time on your side, and you can invest in a great plan called the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). It s a federal government-approved plan to encourage savings for post-secondary education, which includes career...   more...

My funds are locked in how do i get them out.. MEPP.. That's where they are locked in???

Your options for your MEPP (Municipal Employee Pension Plan) pension vary based on your particular situation. You may choose to leave your benefits in the plan as a deferred pension, transfer them to your new employer, or to a LIRA (Locked-in Retirement Account). Saskatchewan legislation provid...   more...

I am in my mid-fifties. I have been saving for retirement for many years, and I think I have enough. But I’m not sure. I need to know how I can be certain that retiring now is really the right decision.

Comedian Henny Youngman once quipped, My accountant told me I have saved enough to live on for the rest of my life as long as I die by 4 o clock this afternoon. His joke points out a very important factor in deciding when to retire: your dreams and expectations. Everyone is different. Do y...   more...

How can I save money?

This is a frequently asked question , and is definitely worth repeating. Saving regularly is the foundation of any personal financial plan. In fact, when you demonstrate good financial savings habits, if at some point you are looking to borrow money, this is something lenders look at. Good mone...   more...

Can you transfer RESPs from another financial institution to Synergy at anytime or do you have to wait until a maturity date?

Generally speaking, fixed term RESP investments cannot be transferred from another financial institution until maturity, whereas floating or variable rate investments can be withdrawn or transferred at any time. If the RESP is in mutual funds or securities it can generally be transferred at any tim...   more...

In these uncertain times, why should I save? Why should I save with an institution such as a Credit Union like Synergy? Would it not be more secure to use a Safety Deposit Box than an account?

During uncertain economic times your best strategy is to either reduce your debt or increase your savings, although doing both would be optimal. This provides flexibility so you can react to changes in the economy or your personal employment situation, if needed. If you build up reserves (savings...   more...

What kind of interest is paid on stocks, bonds, RRSPs?

Returns on stocks* and bonds* are set by the marketplace, and may fluctuate on a daily basis. This is certainly evident when you browse the financial section of your newspaper or check prices online. Normally, bond prices will fluctuate each day, but not as much as stocks. When you select a part...   more...

With the uncertain economy and most indicators showing a slow or no growth in many sectors with income to be flat or lower, what can I do to maximize my tax reductions?

Synergy Credit Union is a full-service financial institution that offers a variety of investment options to suit your needs and help you achieve your goals. You have a couple of investment options to maximize your tax deductions. If you are in a lower marginal income tax rate, you may want to c...   more...

Is it better to invest my savings in a Plan 24 account or the new TFSA account.

You may choose both! Use your savings account and other non-registered savings products for day to day saving and a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) for long-term savings. The benefit of investing within a TFSA is that the investment income earned is non-taxable. You can invest up to $5000 per ...   more...

Is it wise to put your RRSP's into your Mutual funds or is it even a possiblity or would the bank deny you from that? ( I know what Mutual funds are but what are RRSP's?)If your an accountant what would you advise me to do if that was possible?

Just to be clear, we are not accountants at Synergy Credit Union. If you are looking for tax recommendations, we encourage you to speak with your accountant. However, we have fully qualified, experienced and knowledgeable financial experts who can assist you with your financial objectives. What...   more...

What's the advantage of contributing monthly to an RRSP versus a once-a-year contribution?

If you choose a guaranteed investment such as a term deposit for your RRSP contribution, the advantages of contributing monthly are two-fold. First off, you avoid the last minute scramble to fund your contribution by the deadline. And for most people, it is easier to come up with a smaller mo...   more...

If I have a RIF and RRSP, should I still add to my RRSP?

You can contribute to your RRSP up to and including the year you (or your spouse for a spousal plan) turn 71, at which time you must purchase your retirement income options. However, whether you to choose to contribute to your RRSP now or not may depend on your taxable situation. If you are current...   more...

As a new investor what are the advantages of dealing with Synergy Credit Union rather than dealing with a bank?

Deciding where to do your banking is like choosing other professionals in your life. You look for someone you trust, someone who is knowledgeable, someone who is looking out for your best interests and someone who shares the same values as you. One of the most notable advantages of belonging...   more...

Do you at the credit union have a way to calculate a personal income so I could decide if I have enough to retire?

As a matter of fact we do. Our financial planning service, which is available to Synergy members at no charge, is the place to get answers. As you can imagine, there s no general rule as to how much is needed for retirement because we all have very different concepts of what comfortable retirement...   more...

What investing options do you have to entice me to have my investment portfolio to Synergy Credit Union?

What can we offer you? Synergy Credit Union offers a full array of investment options, from guaranteed rate deposits and access to mutual funds*, and individual securities* through our partnership with Credential Securities Inc. Synergy s most important concern is you. Yes we offer investment ...   more...

My husband and I are expecting our first child in another two months. We know what it’s like to live with the burden of big student loans – and we want to avoid that for our children. We want to establish an education fund for them. However, we don’t have a lot of money left at the end of the month.

The two principal factors in saving are time and money. Fortunately, you have time on your side, and you can invest in a great plan called the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). It s a federal government-approved plan to encourage savings for post-secondary education, which includes career...   more...

What strategies are you recommending during this uncertain economic times?

In uncertain economic times we encourage members to exercise good money management skills. It s really just back to basics. 1. If you haven t already done so, establish a three-month emergency fund. That s three month s salary set aside to carry you over in case of job loss, unforeseen...   more...

How do you prepare for a child's educational future?

The easiest way to prepare for your child s educational future is by contributing to a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP).An RESP is a government approved plan for the purpose of providing post-secondary education funding. By starting now, you can grow your education funds by making affordabl...   more...

Does Synergy have savings accounts or plans for RESPs?

Yes, we do offer Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs). An RESP is a government approved plan for the purpose of providing post-secondary education funding. By starting now, you can grow your education funds by making affordable, convenient deposits that earn income that is not taxed until it ...   more...

What is the difference between a regular bank and a credit union and which is better for me to have my money deposited in?

One of the most notable differences is credit unions are member-owned. As shareholders, our members are in the driver s seat determining the direction of their credit union. And we do listen and act accordingly, with decisions that are made locally, not from a distant head office. An added member b...   more...

If I am a student and I have money to invest would you suggest putting that money in an RRSP or a TFSA if I make approximately $25000.00 per year?

RRSPs are beneficial if you have earned income and can utilize a tax deduction. To determine how much you can contribute, refer to your last Revenue Canada Notice of Assessment or contact the agency for your allowable RRSP contribution limit. If you want to max out your contribution, then simply ...   more...

What account will make the most interest on my money?

The amount of investment return is dependant on the type of investment you choose. And the type of investment you choose should match your goals, timelines and risk tolerances. If security is important to you, or if you need to have access to your funds within a few years, term deposits may be ...   more...

Is it best to pay off my mortagage before investing for retirement?

No, you shouldn t wait until you pay off your mortgage to invest in your retirement. You need to establish a regular savings plan and invest in your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) as early in life as possible to take advantage of time and compounding interest. There is a major upside t...   more...

I have 3 children under 10. What are some good strategies to help them create good money management habits that will last a lifetime?

Children are never too young to learn money management skills that can carry with them throughout their lifetime. Remember, even good habits are hard to break! Start by giving them a weekly allowance and require that they account for where the money was spent. This exercise will allow your chil...   more...

Should I save more, or spend more in today's tough economy?

We would encourage you to have a consistent savings plan, regardless of the economy. Saving is a good habit to have and the easiest way to save is to pay yourself first . As soon as you get your paycheque, dedicate 10% of your take home pay to your savings plan. If you pay yourself first , you wo...   more...

When do you have to start "drawing" from your RRSP/ RRIF savings?

You can contribute to an RRSP until the year of your 71 st birthday (not your date of birth, but before the end of that calendar year). There are some exceptions though that may be available to you. For instance, this may be the case if you are contributing to a spousal RRSP and your spouse is you...   more...

My girlfriend has 3 kids and I want to start a university fund for them. What is the best way to start this and approx. how much per child should I be putting away for them?

You have a couple of ways you could approach this and it will depend, for the most part, if you wish to keep these funds under your control until such time as you wish to distribute the money to the children, or you could start a formal education fund which will be designated for the children now. ...   more...

With a tax free savings account, will different institutions have different rules about min and max withdrawals and contributions?

All financial institutions that offer a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) must follow the same rules for maximum contributions, however minimums will be based on individual product offerings and will vary across institutions. The basic details of the TFSA follow guidelines as set by the Government of...   more...

What does Synergy Credit Union offer that would be useful to me to put money away for my six grandchildren, aged 11 to 4?

As a grandparent, you have several ways you could approach this. The monies could be deposited to a Synergy iSave, or Wealth Accumulator with as little as $25 per month, within a sub account under your existing account. The sub account could be set up with the child s name for easy reference. S...   more...

What's a good education fund for the grandkids?

The gift of education. What could be more perfect for the young people in your life? As a grandparent, funding your dream for those you love is made easy with a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). An RESP offers flexible deposit options…you can make one lump sum payment per calendar year (...   more...

How is the best way to save money for my child's education?

The best savings option is the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). An RESP provides tax advantages and flexible deposit options. You can make one lump sum payment per calendar year (prior to December 31 st ) or set up convenient automatic monthly deposits. For as little as $25 per month f...   more...

Our first child is due November 2nd, what do you recommend for education savings for a child...or any other investments for that matter?

Congratulations, and good on you for starting early to consider his or her financial future. The best savings option is the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). An RESP offers flexible deposit options…you can make one lump sum payment per calendar year (prior to December 31st) or set up conv...   more...

If I have a limited amount of money to invest, should I put money into RRSP's, RESP's, or split between the two?

It is great to see that you are making saving for yourself and your children a priority. If you have to choose one over the other to focus on, you may choose your RRSP at this time. There are those who point out your kids can get a student loan but you can t borrow for your retirement. There is ...   more...

My mother has $500 term deposits for all three of my children. Should we turn them into resps??

If your mother intended this very thoughtful gift to be used for your children s education, then RESPs are an appropriate choice. For example, if you contribute $2500, the Canada Education Savings Grant will pay up to 20%, which equals about $500 per child. This certainly adds up over time. An R...   more...

What's the best way to invest money for my child?

There are several options for a parent, guardian or loved one to consider when investing for a child. The monies could be deposited to a Synergy iSave, or Wealth Accumulator with as little as $25 per month, within a sub account under the adult s existing account. The sub account could be set up wit...   more...

When we renew our term deposits, do we still receive the same rate of interest?

When your term deposit renews, the interest rate will reflect current market rates at the time of renewal. Prior to your renewal date, you will receive a notice that provides the specifics of your maturing term deposit. If you wish to modify your terms, for instance investment timeframe, you will n...   more...

What is better, an RRSP or TFSA? I know you can get a loan to buy RRSPs, but what about the TFSAs?

So first off, let s compare the two. A TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) is for everything in life (vacation, car, or another goal tax-free), an RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) is primarily intended for retirement savings. You use after-tax dollars to contribute to a TFSA, but use pre-ta...   more...

I've heard of a "Prairie Basket" when talk of investing comes up, what exactly is this? And is it really a less risky investment?

The Prairies Basket™ Equity Linked Term Deposit is an investment offered through our provincial SaskCentral to participating credit unions. This investment bases its return on the performance of 12 companies that are household names on the Prairies. The capital is guaranteed by your credit union ...   more...

When a person is nearing the age of 60-65 what are some of the choices they would have to invest money from savings or RRSP's too increase income in their years after retirement?

Ensuring you are adequately funded in your retirement can be unnerving especially when you consider at age 65 you could, and hopefully will, require income for a further 25-30 year timeframe. The Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) is definitely a program that will be beneficial to you. A TFSA can b...   more...

Is it ever too late to start saving for retirement?

It s never too late to start saving for retirement. And if you are determined, and dedicated to providing a nest egg for yourself, you can make it happen. If you are at your peak earning years and, if you believe your marginal tax rate will be lower at retirement, you should consider maxing out ...   more...

What is equity based and income based investments?

It s essentially the difference between investing in companies through stocks/shares (buying equity ) and lending your money to an organization, who in turn promises you a rate of interest ( income ). Equity-based investments are held in the anticipation of dividends and growth in the value of...   more...

Is it better to invest money in 'Ethical Funds' or try a longer term savings? For example, on an investment of $10,000.

This is another one size does not fit all scenario. You can grow your money, for example, with GICs, mutual funds*, stocks* and bonds*, which may be held in non-registered plans or RRSPs, TFSAs, etc. Depending on your savings objectives, timeline, and risk tolerance you may choose one or a combin...   more...

How much should a person invest in an RRSP, what's the usual amount?

At your stage in life, you have the most amazing financial tool working for you. Time. And the earlier you start, the better. You ll get the power of compound interest and long term market exposure working for you. The maximum RRSP contribution for the 2009 tax year is 18% of your 2008 earned i...   more...

What kind of investment brings the best returns - GICs, mutual funds or a savings account?

There are significant differences in the investment options you have inquired about. GICs purchased through Synergy Credit Union are fully guaranteed deposits and you know upfront what your rate of return will be (click here for rates). Savings accounts are also fully guaranteed deposits at...   more...

What is the best way to save money now at this age?? (Age 50 to 64)

It is likely you are at the peak earning years in your career and, if you believe your marginal tax rate will be lower at retirement, you should consider maxing out your RRSP contributions. This will shelter your current earned income and defer your income tax payable until you are at a lower margi...   more...

If I take put my pension from work, what can I put it into?

If you are still working for this employer, your pension plan will be customized by the company that you are working for. Many pensions ask you to make a contribution, and your employer makes contributions for you on your behalf. You most certainly want to take advantage of the money your employer ...   more...

What are the benefits of saving in a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)?

The benefits of contributing to a TFSA are many. A TFSA is flexible and can be used for a variety of investments such as variable interest saving accounts, term deposits, guaranteed investment certificates, mutual funds and publicly traded securities and more. Any earnings in your TFSA plan gro...   more...

My husband and I are in our 30's and have not yet started saving for retirement. What is the best way to get going on this and is it possible to fast track savings for late starters?

It s never too late! And now that you re ready to start saving, pay yourself first. Immediately when you receive your pay cheque, allocate 10% to dedicate to your investment plan. It may sound like a lot, but you d be amazed how many people say that after a while, they don t even miss it. Your ...   more...

How come I can't trade stocks online like Toronto Dominion?

You can trade stocks* online via the Credit Union system owned discount brokerage, Credential Direct . Each discount brokerage attempts to cater to various markets and I assume you qualify for active trader status at TD. At TD, if you do more than 30 trades per quarter you pay $9.99 per trad...   more...

How can I make my money grow?

Once you have established your emergency fund of 3-6 months of living expenses then it s time to plan how to grow the extra dollars you have. Your plan should be geared to match the timelines for when you will need to access your funds. You can grow your money, for example, with GICs, mutual fu...   more...

What are my investment (RRSP) options?

Synergy Credit Union is a full service provider of financial products, such as guaranteed investment certificates (GIC s), and can provide you access to mutual funds* and individual securities* through our partnership with Credential Securities Inc. If you re just starting to contribute or find ...   more...

In considering placement of retirement funds, how do you weigh the pros and cons of Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) vs. the tax-deferral growth of a registered fund, such as a RRSP?

Firstly, you may want to check your crystal ball and determine what you see in your retirement future. Is your taxable income in retirement going to be higher or lower than it is today. If you believe your taxable income today is higher, then RRSPs are best. Get your tax deductions now to reduce ...   more...

Other than the interest free savings account, what is the best way to make my savings grow?

Your question is probably referring to the tax free savings account or TFSA. It is an excellent way to save and earn tax free investment income. The TFSA is just one of many investment plan options that may be of interest to you. The best way to make your savings grow is simply to make the ...   more...

Is it difficult to start investing? How can I start investing and do I need lots and lots of money to?

Not at all and it doesn t take a lot. The important thing is just that, get started now. To begin with, for instance, you could choose a Wealth Accumulator where you can lock in term deposit rates with an investment amount of as little as $25 per month. You could have this set up so it s automat...   more...

Can withdrawals be made from a Tax-Free Savings Account ?

Yes! You can withdraw all or any amount of your money tax-free, at any time from a redeemable Tax-Free Savings Account. In one sense, it is just like a regular savings account, where you can withdraw and deposit as you wish (up to the maximum contribution level). Amounts you withdraw are added to y...   more...

Does Synergy Credit Union offer Canadian Savings Bonds, and what is the highest interest and long-term (between 5-10 years) option that Synergy CU offers where one's money is guaranteed?

Yes, Synergy Credit Union does offer Canada Savings Bonds on a seasonal basis, as prescribed by the Government of Canada. The CSB s rate of return is announced by the Government of Canada at that time and purchasing your bonds through Synergy is easy…simply give us a call. You may want to mark your...   more...

If I split my savings between several accounts at the same credit union, is every account insured up to the maximum or is it insured collectively per person?

There s no need to scatter your dollars and create a record-keeping nightmare. A ll deposits and their accumulated investment income, from $1 to a million, held at Synergy Credit Union are fully guaranteed. We are very proud of our deposit guarantee. So how does credit union protection diffe...   more...

When will the interest rates go up on the Wealth Accumulator accounts?

Interest rates are influenced by our regional and national economies, the rates as set by the Bank of Canada, and fluctuations in the global marketplace. When will rates rise? There is no certainty and expert opinion varies greatly. As the economy picks up, rates should rise. Currently, longe...   more...

When will interest rates go up on savings accounts?

Interest rates are influenced by our regional and national economies, the rates as set by the Bank of Canada, and fluctuations in the global marketplace. When will rates rise? There is no certainty and expert opinion varies greatly. As the economy picks up, rates should rise. Currently, longe...   more...

Tax Free Savings Account. Can they be used as an investment tool? How do they really work?

Yes, a TFSA is an excellent way to invest and earn tax free investment income. A TFSA is flexible and can include a variety of investments such as variable interest savings accounts, term deposits, guaranteed investment certificates, mutual funds*, and publicly traded securities* and bonds*. Ho...   more...

Are there any additional benefits to investing in an RRSP I may not be aware of?

A: Yes, the Home Buyers Plan allows you to withdraw up to $20,000 (for the year of 2008) from RRSPs to buy or build a home for yourself. If you are married, your spouse can also withdraw up to $20,000 (for the year of 2008). This program is for first-time homeowners, which means neither of you owne...   more...

Does the interest rate change when the RRSP term expires?

Yes, your interest rate will change to reflect current market rates at the time of your RRSP s renewal. Prior to your renewal date, you will receive a notice that provides the specifics of your maturing RRSP investment. If you wish to modify your terms, for instance investment timeframe, you will n...   more...

Am I better off to have all my savings in one specific account or is it better to have them diversified in several? My RRSPs too.

How you structure your investment portfolio depends on what you want to use the money for. It also depends heavily on when the funds are going to be needed. Check out our Investor Profile Questionnaire , this questionnaire is designed to help you outline your investment risk tolerance based on y...   more...

Do I put money in RRSPs or GICs? One gives me tax benefits - but is it really better?

This is another case of one size does not fit all . It really depends on your goals and objectives, and your marginal tax rate. Check out our Investor Profile Questionnaire , this questionnaire is designed to help you outline your investment objectives and personality. If you believe your ta...   more...

In regards to savings, do I pay down my mortgage or put into RRSPs?

Fortunately, this isn t a question of either or . You can in fact do both. Here s how. The first step is to check your RRSP situation and your contribution room (the amount you can still put into your RRSP without going over your limit). You are allowed to contribute up to 18% of your gross ann...   more...

What is the best savings plan for a growing family?

The big picture, in a nutshell, for you, a combination of debt reduction and income protection is a great place to start. You must build a secure foundation before anything else. The first step is to see where your money goes. Quite possibly there are additional funds that could be freed up for...   more...

At this stage of my life, are Canada Savings Bonds a good investment instead of continuing to put money into RRSP's?

If your taxable income today is higher now than you believe it will be in your retirement years, then RRSPs are still an excellent option for you. The key is to maximize the benefits of your RRSP by taking the next step. After purchasing your RRSP, invest your tax refund in a Tax-Free Savings...   more...

I have money in a RRSP, can I take some of it out, and what are the penalties if I do?

Taking money out of your RRSP (for purposes other than retirement or using your RRSP to participate in the Home Buyers Plan) is possible. However, withdrawing from your RRSP does have consequences and, in most situations, may not be advisable. You can take funds from a variable RRSP at any ti...   more...

What is my maximum percent earned on savings of $10,000?

That depends on the product you select and the risk level you are comfortable with. If security is important to you, term deposits are fully guaranteed and provide a variety of timeframes to suit your investment horizon. For a current rates on term deposits, click here . However, if you are willin...   more...

How does a person grow their money? G.I.C? Stocks? Bonds? Which is better?

How do you grow your money? And where do you start? Once you have stashed your emergency fund of 3-6 months of living expenses, then it s time to plan how to grow the extra dollars you have. The operative word is plan . You need a plan you can commit to and work towards. A good first step woul...   more...

As a student, how much should I contribute to an RRSP monthly?

RRSPs are beneficial if you have earned income and can utilize a tax deduction. To determine how much you can contribute, refer to your last Revenue Canada Notice of Assessment for your allowable RRSP contribution limit. If you want to max out your contribution, then simply divide that number by ...   more...

What is the best way to invest your money?

The best way to invest your money is with confidence. And confidence comes when you have an investment plan that reflects your personal goals, objectives, timelines and risk tolerance. Synergy Credit Union offers a multitude of investment options that we re certain could be perfect for you. Wh...   more...

Does it make sense to keep money in a savings account, as opposed to a chequing account, when I can access both from my debit card?

It s always a good idea to have a savings plan. You can make your money work for you by earning interest until such time as you need your cash. Your savings plan could be set up to allow maximum accessibility. How? Use a trickle down approach. By having a chequing account at Synergy your Dail...   more...

I have both savings and debt. Is it better to pay off credit card debt with savings, or make minimum payments only and keep savings account intact?? Thanks!!

We re glad you asked! When considering credit card debt, it s helpful to look at it this way: If you saved $100 in a savings account for one year at 1%, at the end of the year you would have made $1. If you owed $100 at 20% interest charges and made minimum ( interest-only ) payments, at the end ...   more...

Would it be better to pay down a debt or to invest in more land?

It s safe to say, paying down debt is never a bad thing and it is the ultimate goal in the end. But what are your options? Off the top, let s assume that you don t need this extra money for living expenses in the foreseeable future. If your debt servicing requirements are high compared t...   more...

What's the difference between an RRSP and a tax-free savings plan?

It s a very good question. In some ways, TFSAs and RRSPs are almost mirror images of each other. A TFSA is for everything in life, an RRSP is primarily intended for retirement savings. You use after-tax dollars to contribute to a TFSA, but can use pre-tax dollars for an RRSP. You can t cla...   more...

I am eligible for early retirement pension in four years but would like to work at something else for at least 10 more years. Would it be a better for me to take out the pension or roll it over into something else...I hear alot of advise but dont know what my best option would be. Thanks.

Planning your work life exit strategy can sometimes feel daunting. You want the choices you make to provide the best possible outcome for your retirement years. By exploring your options now, you can put together a plan that you can be comfortable with. With your personal financial affairs attended...   more...

We have built significant equity in our home over the past few years and are wondering whether the Smith Maneuver investment strategy is something that is worth while to consider.

In short, the Smith Maneuver is taking equity in your home, either current or when you pay down your current mortgage, and then borrowing against that equity to fund a non-registered investment, thus allowing you to deduct the interest costs on the money borrowed to invest. In most instance...   more...

Should I invest in residential or commercial property?

Without knowing the specifics, this is very difficult to answer. Depending on your long term plans, either way could help you achieve your goals. A suggestion would be to discuss your long term plans with an investment specialist. Establishing an investment plan is important because it create...   more...

What is the difference between RRSP i-save, index linked, 12 month cashable and what is the best investment for your retirement dollars?

The RRSP iSave provides flexible access to your funds and is generally used to park your money until you make a longer term decision. The interest rate floats and will go up and down depending on what short term rates in Canada are doing at the time. The 12-month cashable is a term deposit that ...   more...

I am in my 20's and I want to soon buy a house. What is the way i can invest my money to earn maximum interest?

Because you have said you want to buy a house soon , you should not take any risks with these savings. And during this window of opportunity, Synergy has a number of options that would allow you to maximize your interest earnings. If you need complete flexibility, so the savings can be used fo...   more...

I am 59 and have recently retired, with a very small pension. Is it still worthwhile for me to buy RSPs?

Not an easy question to answer, since a decision either way would be contingent on many factors based on your individual situation. So, not knowing your details, the following is just one possible scenario. If your taxable income is under $38,000, you would likely be better to take advantage o...   more...

Can you get a set amount of money transferred from your chequing account to your education savings account a month?

Yes. You can set up minimum $25 monthly automated scheduled deposits from your chequing account. This applies to both plans offered by Synergy the Registered Education Savings Plan with guaranteed deposits via Concentra Financial; and mutual funds via Credential Asset Management. Each deposit is ...   more...

My husband and I are in our early 20's and would like to know what percentage of our income should we be setting aside in RRSPs and investments each year so we can retire comfortably?

Your question couldn t come at a better time for your stage in life. The earlier you start, the better, thanks to the power of compound interest and long term market exposure. The maximum RRSP contribution for the 2009 tax year is 18% of your 2008 income up to $21,000. However, there s no quick...   more...

I opened interest bearing savings accounts for my children several years ago when they received a cash gift from their grandfather. I have discovered that both of their accounts have been declared inactive. What do I need to do to have them reactivated and why did this happen? Is there a better account option so this won't happen again?

Your accounts, such as a Daily Savings account, can become inactive when no transactions occur after 3 months. Making a deposit to your account would reactivate them, or you can ask us to do this. However, after three months they will then become inactive again. To avoid this, you can ask us to lin...   more...

What type of account should my 12 year old boy put his money in, in order to earn the most interest?

For short term savings, a Synergy Credit Union iSave is flexible and carries a better rate than our standard Daily Savings Account, if the account balance exceeds $5000. For longer term savings, your son could opt for a Wealth Accumulator where you can lock in term deposit rates with an initial dep...   more...

Could you please explain how the Tax Free Savings Account works and what are the benefits of having one is?

The Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) was introduced by the Government of Canada to encourage people to save. The benefits of contributing to a TFSA is that all investment earnings on your TFSA grow tax sheltered. Tax-free money, no loop-holes, no claw backs. A TFSA could quite possibly grow to becom...   more...

If I transfer my pension into a RRSP will I be able to claim that as a tax contribution?????

It s always smart to be looking out for tax deductions but in this case, the short answer is no. Pension funds are generally a retirement investment that has been contributed to by both you and your employer. If you refer to your pay stub, your portion of pension contributions has been deducted...   more...

Does it make sense to borrow money to invest?

Sometimes it does - but keep in mind that you need to have the ability to make the payments for the investment loan from your current resources. You should not rely on the investment to cover your loan payments as the return on investment can go up or down but your loan payment will stay the same. ...   more...

What is the best financial advice for someone in their 20s?

20s: Establish a good credit rating. Credit is important for borrowing money, renting apartments, renting cars and even getting a job. The best way to establish credit is to do it at a slow pace, rather than building up too much debt at once. Instead of signing up for several credit cards, limit ...   more...

What is the best financial advice for someone in their 30s?

30s: Remember when turning 30 seemed far off? Retirement seems a long way away when you're 30, but it's a good time to start saving so that you can retire in comfort. That's especially true for today's 30-year-olds, who are a lot less likely than workers in their fifties to retire with a monthly ...   more...

What is the best financial advice for someone in their 40s?

40s: By now, retirement is not so far off. 40 year olds are in their peak earning years and should be well on their way to reaching long-range savings goals. Except that for many of us, life gets in the way. Many people in their 40s don't have a well-defined retirement strategy. Others save, but ...   more...

What gives me the highest interest rate for savings?

In addition to high rates of return, access is also an important consideration in any savings plan. Once you have accumulated and tucked away your emergency fund, approximately 3 - 6 months (or even 8 months is better)worth of living expenses, you may consider laddering the balance of your saving...   more...

Will the ISave account ever drop to a point of 0%?

Never say never, but the intent is NO. Synergy maintains the iSave as a competitive investment product offering of the best interest rates in the market. So go ahead, compare apples to apples, and check it out. We re confident the very popular iSave has gained its following for good reason.   more...

Is this a good time to start investing or should I keep it in savings?

Everyday is a good day to invest. And you can, even with safety and security in mind. For cautious investors, as little as $25 a month contributed to a Synergy Wealth Accumulator, as an example, can provide you with a very competitive interest rate over a period of time of your choice. ...   more...

What is the best way to save for my children's education?

The best savings option is the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). An RESP provides tax advantages and flexible deposit options. You can make one lump sum payment per calendar year (prior to December 31 st ) or set up convenient automatic monthly deposits. For as little as $25 per month f...   more...

What is the safest way to invest money?

Security of your hard-earned investment dollars is paramount. And, not all financial institutions are the same. There are a number of differences with the main being that Saskatchewan credit union deposits are fully guaranteed (no dollar limit) through Credit Union Deposit Guarantee Corporation...   more...

What is a better long-term investment for retirement for a young person, RRSPs or a Tax-Free Savings Account?

As a young person, you have the most amazing financial tool on your side. Time. It s the time factor in an investment equation that really makes a huge impact. If you start investing for your retirement at a young age, the magic of compounding interest kicks in and really gets your money working fo...   more...