Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Perry Hart

Spousal RRSPs can help to level out household income, both now and in retirement.

The higher-earning spouse contributes and claims the tax deduction at their marginal tax rate, while the lower-earning spouse owns the account and pays tax on future withdrawals, typically at a lower rate. This strategy works particularly well when there's an income gap between partners or a significant age difference.

I help couples evaluate whether spousal RRSPs fit their retirement income strategy. Reach out to discuss your situation.

How income splitting can lower your taxes Income splitting is a strategy to level out income earned by spouses to reduce tax bills.

If you're planning to move in with your partner, you might be wondering what a cohabitation agreement actually is. Think of it as a clear, written understanding of how you'll handle finances, property, and responsibilities while living together.

A cohabitation agreement typically covers practical questions like:
• Who's responsible for the mortgage or rent?
• How will you split ongoing bills and utilities? What happens to property you each owned before moving in together, or things you buy jointly?
• How will you handle existing debt, and who's responsible for debt you take on together?

The goal isn't to plan for the worst. It's to create clarity so you can focus on building your life together without financial uncertainty getting in the way.

If you're considering moving in with your partner and want to understand how a cohabitation agreement fits into your broader financial picture, let's talk. I can help you think through the financial decisions that matter most.

Edward Jones financial advisors are not lawyers and cannot provide legal advice. A cohabitation agreement is a legally binding document that should be created with the assistance of a qualified lawyer or legal professional. We can help you understand how your financial decisions today connect to your long-term goals and work alongside your legal advisor to support your overall financial strategy.

Cohabitation agreement checklist Do you need a cohabitation agreement? And if so, what should it include? Before we answer those questions, let's first ask, what is a cohabitation agreement?