Advertisement
U.S. citizens pay tax on any income they receive from their TFSAs
Q. I have just renounced my U.S. status. Can I contribute the full cumulative amount to a TFSA? And is there a waiting period before I can make a contribution?
– Don
A. Yes Don, you’re safe to contribute to your TFSA and catch up your past contribution room, which in 2018 is $57,500. Although, I’d suggest you wait until the calendar year after you renounce your citizenship before making the contribution, just in case. You’ll have to confirm with an accountant who specializes in U.S. taxes to confirm if you’re okay making a contribution in the year you renounce your citizenship.
Many people may not be aware that U.S. citizens living in Canada are advised not to make TFSA contributions. U.S. taxpayers are subject to tax on any income they earn in a TFSA on a current year basis. You can read about it more here:
I should point out that U.S. citizens are able to contribute to RRSPs without U.S. taxation issues.
For most Canadians interested in building wealth, the RRSP and/or TFSA should be a top priority, and they work well together.
Related: A near-perfect TFSA for avid stock pickers who avoid U.S. dividend stocks
The first step in building wealth is accumulating/gathering assets. One way to do this is by reducing your taxes, which increases your cash flow, providing you with more money to accumulate assets. That’s why an RRSP is often the first choice. The tax refund provides extra money to reinvest and accumulate. The TFSA allows for tax-free growth and income which is perfect when planning out a retirement income or estate plan.
Congratulations Dan, you can now contribute to your TFSA and it sounds like you’re able to take full advantage, Fantastic!
Allan Norman, M.Sc., CFP, CIM, Atlantis Financial/IPC Investment Corp.
Share this article Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Share on Reddit Share on Email
Canadians with no children or siblings must consider estate planning alternatives. Here’s why trust companies can be a good...
The federal government’s capital gains inclusion rate increase has yet to become law. There’s a slight chance it may...
Canadians have reporting requirements for foreign assets, income and tax paid. Here’s how to claim each of these on...
A Certified Financial Planner provides perspective on the TFSA vs. RRSP question for a couple in their late 50s...
In retirement, some income is not subject to withholding tax, and you may potentially owe tax after filing each...
Some strategies are time-sensitive, while others can help you start the new year on the right foot.
Sometimes, it’s not action, but inaction, that can hurt you financially. Here are examples of when selling may be...
Wondering whether your estate planner knows the latest tax laws? Do you need a tax lawyer too? Discover three...
Do Canadians need to consolidate RRSP accounts before converting to RRIFs? Find out this and more.
Here’s a primer for Canadians on choosing between employment and self-employment for a new work arrangement.