A lot of people I work with have done the hard part. They’ve saved, they’ve invested, they’ve built a nest egg worth protecting. The harder part is taking the next step.

Whether you're already retired, are a few years out or just getting organized, I want to share with you the three questions that keep coming up in my conversations.

Will my money last — and how do I draw it down in a tax efficient manner?

The order you draw down from your accounts, when you trigger CPP and OAS, how you use your TFSA versus your RRIF — these decisions can meaningfully affect how long your money lasts and how much tax you’ll pay along the way. Most people never get a clear answer. That’s where a good financial plan comes in. 

What could the markets mean for my plan?

Volatility is part of investing — but it shouldn't affect your plan. When headlines turn ugly, people ask whether a rough stretch means rethinking the whole strategy. Usually, the answer is no — a well-built plan is designed to absorb that. The real risk isn't volatility. It's reacting to it.

What happens to all of this if something happens to me?

This is the hardest question to ask, and the one most likely to be put off. But a plan that only works while you're healthy and present isn't really a plan. Getting this right is one of the kindest things you can do for the people you love.

Join Me for Breakfast — June 18th

If even one of these questions has been on your mind, I'd like to invite you for breakfast and an educational seminar at the Blue Mountains Public Library on Wednesday, June 18th, from 8:30 to 9:30 am – give me a call or email to reserve your spot.

Fraser Willson, CFP, CIM | Senior Wealth Advisor | CIBC Wood Gundy | Collingwood | Fraser.Willson@cibc.com  | (647) 588-4344 
CIBC Private Wealth consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. The CIBC logo and “CIBC Private Wealth” are trademarks of CIBC, used under license. “Wood Gundy” is a registered trademark of CIBC World Markets Inc. Fraser is an Investment Advisor with CIBC Wood Gundy in Collingwood. The views of Fraser do not necessarily reflect those of CIBC World Markets Inc. Clients are advised to seek advice regarding their particular circumstances from their personal tax and legal advisors. If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor. This information, including any opinion, is based on various sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Clients are advised to seek advice regarding their particular circumstances