In the first episode of Retirement Unpacked, Adam Bornn and Brett Martinson from Parallel Wealth answer real retirement questions from Canadians. We cover how CPP survivor benefits will work in 2025, explain the cash wedge strategy for creating reliable retirement income, and clear up common mistakes people make with TFSA contribution rules. We also discuss how to approach big purchases in retirement, what fee-based advisor models actually mean, and share practical RRIF and RRSP tips you can use right away.

This episode is designed to help you avoid costly mistakes, understand your options, and feel more confident about your financial future.

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Timestamps

00:00 Disclaimer  

00:16 Host Intros  

02:19 CPP Survivor Benefits  

06:27 Cash Wedge Strategy  

08:55 Big Purchases in Retirement  

10:37 Stress-Testing Expenses  

14:16 TFSA Catch-Up  

16:25 CRA TFSA Numbers  

20:05 TFSA Carry Forward & Withdrawals  

22:55 TFSA Growth & Limits  

25:51 Case study: Overbuilt Cash Wedge  

30:38 Fee-Based vs Bundled Fees  

34:16 What Am I Paying For?  

40:07 RRIF to RRSP Tips

42:34 Conclusion