When can I retire?
A retirement plan is based on many assumptions and the more well defined and accurate those assumptions are, the stronger and more useful the retirement plan will be.  The challenge is finding your balance between not having your money run out before your time and still realizing that you can't take it with you when you go.  Some of the most important factors surround the lifestyle you wish to have on retirement: required monthly income, large lump sum purchases, increased travel, or medical expenses.  However, considerations such as your life expectancy, existing pensions, and expected rate of return on investments also need close attention.  At JV, we help to set realistic goals and expectations, taking as much guesswork as possible out of your retirement plan so that you can sleep well now and enjoy life later.

What happens with my investments when I retire?
Drawing income from your investments during retirement requires careful thought and attention to detail.  Depending on your personal tax situation, funds may be drawn from any combination of registered vs. non-registered investments, personal vs. corporate funds, or your savings vs. those of your spouse.  If you have taken advantage of opportunities for tax savings and deferral throughout your earning years, such as income splitting and RSPs (Registered Savings Plans), this is where your forward thinking will pay off, as you minimize your taxable income while enjoying the lifestyle you have been planning for.