The Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) is a government program that allows Canadians to borrow money from their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to purchase a home. This program can be beneficial for people looking to buy their first home, as it allows them to build up their equity faster.
The dwelling (house, condo, plex, etc.), which must be considered as the principal residence, can be new or existing.
PRE-APPROVALThe HBP allows a homebuyer to withdraw up to $35,000 from his or her RRSP for the purchase of a property.
To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria:
You have 15 years to repay all the funds you withdrew from your RRSPs for the HBP.
However, you can start repaying the money in the second year after the year the funds were withdrawn. For example, if you "raptured" in 2020, repayments would have to begin in 2022 and end 15 years later.
However, it is possible to start repaying the money in the first year.
The Canada Revenue Agency will determine the minimum repayment to be made each year for 15 years, in equal payments. Note that you have the option of repaying all or the balance of the amounts withdrawn at any time.
For more information on HBP refunds, refer to the CRA.
The HBP is a popular option for Canadians looking to buy their first home, as it allows them to maximize their down payment while minimizing borrowing costs.
Note that some RRSPs, such as locked-in or group RRSPs, do not allow premature withdrawals, even under the HBP.
There are many advantages to HBP, but there are also some disadvantages to consider:
Benefits
Disadvantages
To apply for an HBP, you must complete the Government of Canada form T1036. This form must be sent to your RRSP administrator for processing. You can withdraw funds from your RRSP up to 30 days before the purchase of your property.
If you contribute to your RRSP before making an HBP withdrawal, you will be entitled to your tax deduction only if the funds have remained in your RRSP for at least 90 days. You may also be able to access the HBP if you purchase or build a qualifying home for a related person with a disability.
The Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) is a government program that allows Canadians to borrow money from their RRSPs to purchase a home. While there are many advantages, there are also disadvantages to consider. Before applying for an HBP, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria and the advantages and disadvantages associated with it. The HBP can be a useful tool to help Canadians purchase their first home, but it must be used thoughtfully. If you are considering using the HBP to purchase a property, it is recommended that you discuss your financial situation with a professional. A financial advisor can help you determine if the HBP is the best option for you and can help you plan your repayment. Ultimately, the HBP is a tool that can help Canadians become homeowners sooner, but it is important to understand the long-term implications before making a decision. If you have any questions about the HBP or about buying a home, don't hesitate to contact a professional.
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