愛污传媒

Skip to main content

Pattie Lovett-Reid: Our grandchildren don't need more stuff. That's why we gift them RESPs instead.

In this Friday, June 1, 2018, file photo, graduates are silhouetted against the green landscape as they line up to receive their diplomas. (Gillian Jones/The Berkshire Eagle via AP, File) In this Friday, June 1, 2018, file photo, graduates are silhouetted against the green landscape as they line up to receive their diplomas. (Gillian Jones/The Berkshire Eagle via AP, File)
Share
HUNTSVILLE, Ont. -

We are the type of grandparents that want the world for our grandchildren. That doesn't mean they need more stuff. To us it means they need some form of a post-secondary education.

We truly believe our grandchildren don't need another piece of designer clothing, expensive toy or trinket that may soon be forgotten after their birthday or other special gift giving occasion. We hope to participate in a gift that keeps on giving: an education.

The reason for this? Education is often thought to be the great equalizer.

So -- spoiler alert -- our grandchildren will be getting contributions to their Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP).

found that 92 per cent of Canadians are aware of RESPs, however, less than half (49 per cent) are currently using the saving tool.

This concerns me.

Post-secondary education is expensive and recent graduates will tell you the debt burden is a heavy load for a recent recent grad as they enter the workforce.

According to Knowledge First Financial, it is expected that, by 2030, the average cost of a four-year post-secondary education degree will be approximately $111,698 with residence, and $55,548 without.

Canada Life found those that did contribute to RESPs have a total average contribution of about $22,800, with the median monthly contribution being $210.

Now, to be fair, an RESP isn't the only route to go. The survey found  that 39 per cent established in-trust or bank accounts in their child's or grandchild's name, and 27 per cent used tax-free savings accounts.

Both are great options,however, if you save via the RESP you can maximize your investment.

  1. The government will match your contribution up to $500 per year for a lifetime total of $7,200 per child, via the Canada Education Savings Grant.
  2. The savings grow tax free within the plan. Your money is not taxed, but grants and growth accumulated within the plan are taxed at the student's rate. However, as we know, most students will have little or no income resulting in the money being withdrawn tax-free.
  3. The money saved within an RESP can be used for books, living expenses, course materials and other things in addition to tuition.

One final thought: our strategy is to invest early and often while at the same time use this gift as an opportunity to talk to children and grandchildren about their future, why we care and how much opportunity lies ahead.

And in case you are wondering... yes, there will be a small token given alongside the contribution. We still want to have a little fun.

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

Canadian musician Jacob Hoggard has been found not guilty of sexually assaulting a young woman in northeastern Ontario eight years ago. The former Hedley frontman had pleaded not guilty to sexual assault.

Police have arrested a Toronto woman in connection with three recent homicides and investigators say that they believe two of the victims may have been 'randomly targeted.'

The body of a British Columbia mountain climber has been located and recovered after the 39-year-old man was reported missing during a solo climb on Washington state's Mount Baker earlier this week.

A teen charged with the murder of another teen on Prince Edward Island last year has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of manslaughter.

A Saskatchewan man living in the United States has pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography after he unknowingly provided disturbing videos to an FBI agent he thought was a pedophile.

Local Spotlight

Chantal Kreviazuk is set to return to Winnipeg to mark a major milestone in her illustrious musical career.

From the beaches of Cannes to the bustling streets of New York City, a new film by a trio of Manitoba directors has toured the international film festival circuit to much pomp and circumstance.

A husband and wife have been on the road trip of a lifetime and have decided to stop in Saskatchewan for the winter.

The grave of a previously unknown Canadian soldier has been identified as a man from Hayfield, Man. who fought in the First World War.

A group of classic car enthusiasts donated hundreds of blankets to nursing homes in Nova Scotia.

Moving into the second week of October, the eastern half of Canada can expect some brisker fall air to break down from the north

What does New Westminster's t蓹m蓹sew虛tx史 Aquatic and Community Centre have in common with a historic 68,000-seat stadium in Beijing, an NFL stadium and the aquatics venue for the Paris Olympics? They've all been named among the world's most beautiful sports venues for 2024.

The last living member of the legendary Vancouver Asahi baseball team, Kaye Kaminishi, died on Saturday, Sept. 28, surrounded by family. He was 102 years old.

New data from Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley shows a surge in supply and drop in demand in the region's historically hot real estate market.

Stay Connected