MacNicol & Associates Asset Management, a renowned financial institution, has recently launched the First Home Savings Account, an innovative savings plan aimed at helping Canadians achieve their goal of homeownership. This article provides an in-depth look at the features and benefits of this new offering.

MacNicol & Associates Asset Management FHSA vs TFSA vs RRSP table

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the First Home Savings Account, individuals must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  1. Age Requirement: Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 71 to open the account.
  2. Tax Residency: The individual should be a current tax resident of Canada.
  3. Homeownership History: The account holder must not have lived in a home that they or their partner owned in the current calendar year or any of the previous four calendar years.
  4. Saving for a Qualifying Home: The account must be opened with the intention of saving for the purchase of a qualifying home in Canada.

Contributions and Deductions
The First Home Savings Account enables account holders to contribute towards their down payment with some attractive contribution and deduction features:

  1. Annual Contribution Limit: Account holders can contribute up to $8,000 per year. Unused contributions can be carried forward with a maximum carry-forward limit of $8,000.
  2. Lifetime Contribution Limit: The total lifetime contribution is capped at $40,000.
  3. Tax Deductibility: Similar to an RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan), annual contributions can be deducted when filing income tax.

Utilization of the First Home Savings Account
MacNicol & Associates Asset Management’s First Home Savings Account offers flexibility in investment options and timeframes for account utilization:

  1. Investment Options: Account holders can invest in various instruments such as stocks, ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds), options, and more, similar to a TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) or an RRSP.
  2. Timeframe: Contributions can be made until the account reaches the lifetime contribution limit or for up to 15 years after the account’s initial opening.

The First Home Savings Account introduced by MacNicol & Associates Asset Management serves as a valuable tool for Canadians looking to save for their first home. With eligibility criteria including age, tax residency, homeownership history, and a clear focus on purchasing a qualifying home, this account is tailored to meet the specific needs of prospective homeowners. The contribution and deduction features, coupled with the flexibility in investment options and utilization timeframes, make this account an ideal choice for individuals aiming to accumulate funds for their dream home. MacNicol & Associates Asset Management’s First Home Savings Account empowers Canadians to embark on their homeownership journey with confidence and financial prudence.

Contact us today to find out how you can take advantage of this new program.