Saving for Retirement
Fuel Your Financial Independence
Every dollar invested today brings you closer to a retirement where you're in control. Small, consistent steps add up, and starting early gives your money time to grow. The future you dream of begins with the actions you take today.
Why Saving for Retirement Matters
Live the Life You Love
Imagine enjoying the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of, without the worry of income constraints. Whether it’s traveling the world, starting new hobbies, or spending time with loved ones, your savings will help you live on your terms.
Achieve True Financial Freedom
Retirement is the time to embrace your independence. A strong savings plan ensures you won’t have to rely on others or dip into emergency funds, giving you the confidence to live life fully.
Be Ready for Life’s Surprises
The future can be unpredictable, but with a solid plan in place, you’ll be ready for anything. Whether it’s healthcare needs or a spontaneous adventure, you’ll have the financial security to handle life’s twists and turns.
Harness the Power of Growth
The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow. Compounding interest and smart investments mean that even small steps today can lead to incredible rewards tomorrow. Every dollar you save works harder for you, building momentum toward the future you deserve.
Live the Life You Love
Imagine enjoying the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of, without the worry of income constraints. Whether it’s traveling the world, starting new hobbies, or spending time with loved ones, your savings will help you live on your terms.
Achieve True Financial Freedom
Retirement is the time to embrace your independence. A strong savings plan ensures you won’t have to rely on others or dip into emergency funds, giving you the confidence to live life fully.
Be Ready for Life’s Surprises
The future can be unpredictable, but with a solid plan in place, you’ll be ready for anything. Whether it’s healthcare needs or a spontaneous adventure, you’ll have the financial security to handle life’s twists and turns.
Harness the Power of Growth
The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow. Compounding interest and smart investments mean that even small steps today can lead to incredible rewards tomorrow. Every dollar you save works harder for you, building momentum toward the future you deserve.
Everyone's retirement vision is different. Whether you see yourself traveling the world, spending more time with family, or picking up a new hobby, your savings should reflect your unique goals.
A good starting point is aiming to replace about 70-80% of your pre-retirement income. But it’s important to consider your lifestyle, spending habits, and any new adventures you want to take on in retirement.
Use Our Retirement Planner: Take the guesswork out of the equation. Our planner helps you supercharge your retirement savings strategy and determine how much you need to live your best life.
Simple - yet Powerful - Steps
For Where You Are & Where You Want to Be
Simple - yet Powerful - Steps
For Where You Are & Where You Want to Be
Your 20s are all about setting the stage for future growth. While retirement might seem far away, this is the perfect time to harness the power of compounding growth. Even small contributions now can have a huge impact later on.
-
Open an RRSP or TFSA: Start with whatever you can contribute—even small amounts make a difference when you start young.
-
Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers to your retirement account, so you’re consistently building your future. Learn more.
-
Invest in Growth: Focus on more aggressive, growth-oriented investments* while you have the time to ride out market fluctuations.
Take Action: Set up an automatic transfer of at least $50 a month into your RRSP or TFSA. Time will do the rest!
Easy Win: With QTrade Guided Portfolios, you can easily open and fund a personalized portfolio—all online. It's fast, straightforward, and tailored to you! Learn more and take your next step toward financial success!
In your 30s, you’re likely earning more and establishing your career, so now’s the time to accelerate your retirement savings. You still have plenty of time, but it’s important to build on what you’ve started.
-
Increase Contributions: If you’ve gotten a raise or bonus, direct some of that extra income into your retirement savings.
-
Max Out Employer Contributions: If your employer offers a matching contribution to your pension plan, make sure you’re contributing enough to get the full match.
-
Diversify Your Investments*: Continue to grow your portfolio with a balance of riskier and more stable investments.
Take Action: Review your budget and increase your retirement contributions by 5%—a little more now will have a big impact later. Want to learn more about budgeting, check out this free guide in our financial education portal: Getting Started with Budgeting
Your 40s are a critical time to catch up if you’ve fallen behind or to refine your strategy if you’re on track. You’re likely juggling more financial responsibilities, but it’s also the time to start thinking seriously about the retirement lifestyle you want.
-
Maximize RRSP Contributions: Take full advantage of your RRSP contribution room, especially if you’ve got unused space from previous years.
-
Focus on Higher Contributions: Increase your monthly contributions as your income allows and focus on building a stronger retirement fund.
-
Refine Your Investment* Strategy: Start gradually shifting toward more balanced investments to reduce risk as you get closer to retirement.
Take Action: Use our easy, one-screen Retirement Calculator to check if you’re on track and adjust your contributions to meet your goals. For a deeper dive, try our comprehensive Retirement Assessment. Better yet, connect with us—we’d love to talk about your dreams and help craft a strategy to make them a reality!
Retirement is on the horizon, making this the perfect time to power up your savings and finalize your strategy. It’s your chance to give your retirement fund a serious boost while making smart financial decisions for the future.
-
Maximize Your Contributions: If you haven’t maxed out your RRSP or TFSA, now is the time. Take advantage of any catch-up opportunities, especially in your RRSP.
-
Consolidate and Simplify: Start organizing your accounts and simplifying your investments* to make it easier to manage when you retire.
-
Plan for Withdrawals: Begin thinking about how you’ll access your funds in retirement. Consider the best withdrawal strategies to minimize taxes and maximize income.
Action: Use any extra income—bonuses, tax refunds, or reduced expenses (like paid-off debts)—to turbocharge your retirement fund.
Pro Tip: Planning now can make all the difference later. Talk to us about your retirement goals, and we’ll help you build a personalized strategy. Whether you need advice on contribution limits, withdrawal strategies, or simplifying your accounts, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s create a plan that ensures your financial well-being for the retirement you envision!
In your 60s, the time has come to fine-tune your plan and make the transition to retirement. You’ve worked hard, and now it’s about ensuring that your savings last and support the lifestyle you want.
-
Finalize Your Retirement Date: Decide when you want to retire and how that will impact your financial plan.
-
Convert Your RRSP: By the end of the year you turn 71, you’ll need to convert your RRSP into a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) or an annuity to start drawing income. To find out how much income you will get from your RRIF, or how long it will last, check out our Retirement Income Fund Calculator.
-
Plan for Longevity: Make sure your retirement income will last by carefully managing your withdrawals and considering any health care needs or future expenses.
Simple Steps: Collaborate with a financial advisor to design a withdrawal strategy that supports your retirement lifestyle and long-term goals.
Whether you’re just starting your career or nearing retirement, the key is to take action now. Every step you take moves you closer to the secure, fulfilling retirement you deserve. Ready to get started?
-
Use Our Retirement Planner: See how much you’ll need to save and create a plan that fits your lifestyle.
-
Talk to a Financial Advisor: Get personalized advice on maximizing your retirement savings and making the most of every dollar you invest.
-
Open or Contribute to Your RRSP or TFSA: It’s easy to take the first step toward a brighter future—start today!
Strategies to Maximize Your Retirement Savings
PAC to Win $1K
A Preauthorized Contribution (PAC) is an effortless way to grow your savings by automatically setting aside money on a regular schedule.
With "PAC to Win $1K" you can start building your financial future with ease. Set up your PAC today and be automatically entered to win $1,000 while building the foundation for long-term success. Small steps today lead to big dreams tomorrow—your journey starts here!
Catch Up With Unused RRSP Room
If you haven’t been contributing to your RRSP over the years, don’t worry! You can carry forward any unused contribution room indefinitely, so it’s never too late to boost your savings and catch up.
Diversify Your Investments*
Spreading your money across different types of investments*—like stocks, bonds, and real estate—helps protect your savings and ensures steady growth over time. Diversification can help you ride out market fluctuations and keep your retirement plans on course.
Reinvest Tax Refunds
If you’re getting a tax refund from your RRSP contributions, consider reinvesting that money right back into your retirement savings. It’s a great way to amplify your efforts and build your retirement fund faster.
DIY, Robo-Advice, or Advisor—what’s right for you?
Guided Portfolios (or Robo-Advice)
Who’s it for?
-
Those who want investment guidance but prefer a hands-off approach.
-
New investors looking for a simple, low-cost way to get started.
-
Busy individuals who want a fast, online solution tailored to their goals.
Get tailored investment recommendations based on your goals with a quick online questionnaire—simple, fast, and fully online!
Online Brokerage for the DIY Investor
Who’s it for?
-
Confident, hands-on investors who want complete control of their portfolio.
-
Experienced individuals who enjoy researching and selecting their investments.
-
Anyone who values flexibility and the freedom to trade anytime, anywhere.
Invest anytime, anywhere with an award-winning online trading platform. Perfect for those who want full control.
Personal Advice
Who’s it for?
-
Those who prefer a personalized, relationship-based approach to investing.
-
Individuals with complex financial goals or who want expert insights.
-
People who value tailored strategies and guidance, available virtually or in-person.
Work with an advisor for personalized support, expert investment strategies, and a plan tailored to your goals. Connect your way—in-person or virtually.
Tax-Smart Savings: Understanding RRSPs and TFSAs
An RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) is one of the most popular and effective ways to save for retirement in Canada. Here’s why:
-
Tax-Deductible Contributions: Any money you contribute to your RRSP can be deducted from your taxable income, lowering your tax bill for the year.
-
Tax-Sheltered Growth: Your investments grow tax-free while they’re in the RRSP, allowing you to build wealth more quickly.
-
Borrowing from Your RRSP: You can use up to $35,000 from your RRSP toward the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) or the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) without paying taxes, as long as you repay it within the required period.
RRSPs are ideal for those in higher tax brackets who want immediate tax relief.
A TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) is a flexible savings option that can also help you save for retirement. While it isn’t exclusively for retirement, many people use it as part of their long-term savings strategy.
-
Tax-Free Withdrawals: You can withdraw money from your TFSA at any time, tax-free, giving you flexibility in retirement.
-
No Tax on Growth: Any income or growth earned in your TFSA is completely tax-free, so your savings can grow faster.
-
Complement Your RRSP: Many people use TFSAs to supplement their RRSP savings, especially for shorter-term retirement goals or to fund lifestyle choices in retirement.
RRSP |
TFSA |
|
Contribution Room | 18 % of previous year's earned income up to $32,490 in 2025 |
$7,000 - the annual dollar limit is indexed to inflation.
|
Carry-forward | Carry forward until you turn 71 | Carry-forward indefinitely |
Contributions | Pre-tax dollars | After tax dollars |
Tax deductibility | Yes | No |
Tax Treatment of Growth | Tax deferred | Tax free |
- RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan): Ideal for long-term retirement savings. Contributions are tax-deductible, and your money grows tax-free until you withdraw it—perfect for reducing taxable income now and building a nest egg for the future.
- TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account): Flexible and versatile. Contributions aren’t tax-deductible, but your money grows tax-free, and withdrawals are completely tax-free—great for shorter-term goals or supplementing retirement savings.
Diversify Your Portfolio
Understanding Investments Within Your RRSPs and TFSAs
Stocks represent ownership in a company, giving you a share in its profits and growth. Stock prices can fluctuate based on market conditions, offering higher potential returns but with higher risks.
Stocks are ideal for long-term investors who are comfortable with risk and want to grow their wealth over time. With higher potential returns, stocks are especially suited for younger investors or those with time before retirement to weather market fluctuations. They offer significant growth potential, making them a powerful way to boost your retirement savings.
Bonds are loans to governments or corporations. In return, you receive regular interest payments over a set period, and your principal is returned when the bond matures. Bonds are less volatile than stocks and provide steady income.
Bonds are best for conservative investors or those nearing retirement who want steady income with less risk than stocks. Bonds offer predictable returns and provide stability in your portfolio, making them a solid choice for anyone seeking to preserve capital while earning a consistent income.
Mutual funds pool money from many investors to invest in a variety of assets, such as stocks, bonds, or a combination. Managed by professionals, mutual funds offer a hands-off way to diversify your investments.
Mutual funds are ideal for investors looking for diversification without the need to manage individual investments. These professionally managed funds pool together various assets, spreading out risk while giving you access to a wide range of stocks and bonds. They are great for people who want a hands-off approach with the benefit of expert management.
ETFs are similar to mutual funds but are traded on stock exchanges like individual stocks. They offer a diversified mix of investments at a lower cost than many mutual funds.
ETFs are perfect for cost-conscious investors seeking diversification similar to mutual funds but with lower fees. ETFs offer flexibility, allowing you to trade them like stocks while giving you broad exposure to different asset classes. They’re suited for those who want a mix of investments but prefer lower costs and more control over buying and selling.
GICs are fixed-term investments where you deposit money for a set period in exchange for guaranteed interest. Your principal is also guaranteed, making GICs a low-risk option.
GICs are ideal for conservative investors who prioritize security and guaranteed returns. GICs provide a fixed interest rate over a set period, making them perfect for those who want to protect their principal while earning a predictable return. They’re a great choice for individuals nearing retirement or anyone looking for a safe, low-risk investment.
Qtrade Guided Portfolios® is a fully online, professional investment service designed to help you grow your wealth effortlessly. Through a quick, goals-based questionnaire, it builds a customized portfolio that matches your financial goals and risk tolerance. With continuous oversight, low fees, and automatic rebalancing, your investments stay aligned with your objectives without the need for in-person meetings.
We get it; life is busy Life is busy, and finding time for in-person appointments isn’t always easy. Qtrade Guided Portfolios® is a hassle-free, hands-off approach to investing with professional guidance every step of the way.
Ideal for individuals or families with complex financial needs, such as business owners, professionals, or retirees with significant assets, these services offer advanced wealth growth, tax efficiency, and legacy protection. With a hands-on, expert partnership, you can confidently navigate your financial journey.
Check out the Investing to Build Wealth course! This course bumps your investment readiness up a notch with a broad overview of different types of investment vehicles, strategies, and principles.
Learn More
Retirement Calculator | A simple, one-screen retirement calculator. |
Retirement Assessment | A more in-depth retirement planner |
Retirement Income Fund Calculator | |
Enrich | Our award-winning financial education platform |
Course: Investing to build wealth | |
Course: Creating a financial plan | |
Video: Achieving Financial Goals | |
Video: How to Adjust Your Financial Plan When Things Change |
Meet the Team
Clarissa Welsh
BBA
Investment Specialist
Aviso Wealth
T 306 842 9556
Darla Brenholen
WC, CEA
Investment Specialist
Aviso Wealth
Jordan Rederburg
B.A. Econ, CFP®
Senior Investment Specialist
Aviso Wealth
T 306 842 9553
Meet Clarissa, our Wealth Management Specialist and a financial wizard. She has a knack for finding the best products for our members and helping them achieve their dreams. She has a degree in Finance, plus two certificates in Economics and Public Relations, so you know she’s smart and savvy.
She started at WCU as a Financial Analyst, but soon discovered her love for working with people and joined the Wealth Management team. She’s always learning new things and improving her skills, because she believes that knowledge is power. Clarissa is originally from Ontario, but she fell in love with Saskatchewan and then Weyburn, where she plans to live happily ever after with her husband Morgan and their adorable puppy Rito. She likes to spend her free time with her loved ones, and exploring new places and cultures. Clarissa is a joy to work with and a great asset to WCU.
Darla became an investment advisor in February 2011. She has her Mutual Funds license, and in 2013 achieved her Wealth Consultant designation. She continues to develop her knowledge of the investment world.
Darla enjoys helping her members reach their goals. Whether they are saving for retirement, or opening their first savings account, she takes the time to get to know her members and what solution will best suit their needs. Darla treats all of her members like they are a part of her family.
Darla and her husband, Murray have always called Weyburn home. They live here with their 4 children: Brayden, Bailey, Shayla, and Peyton. Darla’s free time is spent with her family and their various activities including hockey, baseball, and music events, as well as helping out others. Throughout the summer months she loves to go camping.
Originally from Weyburn, Jordan returned to his roots in 2019 and has enjoyed helping numerous members improve their financial lives by providing consistent advice, pro-active communication, and taking the time to understand the hopes, fears, and dreams that drive his members. He lives with his wife Melissa in Midale and enjoys spending time with friends and family around Weyburn.
He is a proud holder of the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional designation.
Tony Gill
BBA, CFP®, CIM®, CLU®, FCSI®
Senior Wealth Advisor
Aviso Wealth
T 306 842 9571
T 306 842 9571
Sean Purdue
CFP®, FCSI, CIWM, CIM, CLU
Senior Wealth Advisor
Aviso Wealth
T 306 842 9554
T 306 842 9554
Tony started with Weyburn Credit Union in 2008 and has since transitioned into a role with Aviso Wealth. He is a firm believer in lifelong learning and continuous professional development. He obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree from the University of Regina majoring in Finance, received the Fellow of the Credit Union Institute of Canada designation (FCUIC), completed the Canadian Securities Course, and has achieved the Wealth Consultant designation (WC). His most recent accomplishment marked the completion of the final requirements to earn his designation as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).
Tony is originally from the Halbrite area. He and his wife, Nicole, and their two sons, Jacob and Joshua, have made Weyburn their permanent home. Tony spends his spare time visiting family and always enjoys taking in the latest releases at the movie theater.
Link: CIRO Advisor Report
Sean’s career in financial services began in May 2003 in consumer lending. In 2005, he pursued his passion and moved into Wealth Management. Currently, Sean is a Wealth Advisor with Aviso Wealth. As an experienced Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Sean is equipped to help his clients navigate all aspects of their financial affairs. Owners of small businesses and family farms are increasingly accumulating wealth inside of their corporations. Sean’s investment and tax knowledge allow him to specialize in developing strategies for his client’s corporations and family trusts. He is also experienced in dealing with the intricacies of various types of pension plans.
Sean lives in Weyburn with his wife Dawn and their three children. In his down time, he enjoys travelling, camping and watching/coaching his kids’ activities. You can also find him at every Rider home game cheering on the Green & White!
Link: CIRO Advisor Report
Retirement Planning: Expert Guidance with a CFP Professional
Customized Strategy
Get a retirement plan tailored specifically to your goals, lifestyle, and financial situation.
Comprehensive View
A CFP professional helps you see the full picture of your finances, from budgeting and saving to investment strategies and tax planning.
Tax-Efficient Saving
Maximize your retirement savings with advice on RRSPs, TFSAs, and other tax-advantaged accounts.
Investment Expertise
Receive expert recommendations on how to diversify your portfolio for both growth and stability.
Confidence and Peace of Mind
With a CFP professional’s guidance, you can stop losing sleep over your financial future. You’ll feel secure knowing your plan is designed to help you meet your retirement goals.
Ongoing Support
As your financial needs and goals change, a CFP professional is there to adjust your plan, keeping you on track throughout your life.
Learn more
Find out more about financial planning and meet our CFP professionals.
More of a DIYer?
We've got you covered; check out our Retirement Assessment.
Customized Strategy
Get a retirement plan tailored specifically to your goals, lifestyle, and financial situation.
Comprehensive View
A CFP professional helps you see the full picture of your finances, from budgeting and saving to investment strategies and tax planning.
Tax-Efficient Saving
Maximize your retirement savings with advice on RRSPs, TFSAs, and other tax-advantaged accounts.
Investment Expertise
Receive expert recommendations on how to diversify your portfolio for both growth and stability.
Confidence and Peace of Mind
With a CFP professional’s guidance, you can stop losing sleep over your financial future. You’ll feel secure knowing your plan is designed to help you meet your retirement goals.
Ongoing Support
As your financial needs and goals change, a CFP professional is there to adjust your plan, keeping you on track throughout your life.
Learn more
Find out more about financial planning and meet our CFP professionals.
More of a DIYer?
We've got you covered; check out our Retirement Assessment.