Investing · Book
What's Left to Build With
Ray, 54 · Investing
What's still possible after the RDSP's best window has closed: the TFSA as the workhorse, the DTC refunds put to work, and a smaller fixed pool invested with care.
Chapters
What's Left to Build With
Investing on a fixed disability income is real but different. Ray starts from what's actually possible now, setting goals before products.
The Window, One More Look
The RDSP grant and bond closed at the end of the year Ray turned 49. He names the loss once, without false hope, and moves on.
The Account You Can Still Open
Ray can still open an RDSP and contribute until the end of the year he turns 59. There's no grant, but the tax-sheltered growth is real.
The Workhorse
For most of Ray's plan the TFSA does the heavy lifting: flexible, tax-free, and well suited to someone in his position.
A Smaller, Steadier Pool
A fixed income lowers how much risk Ray can carry. He invests a smaller pool conservatively, adjusting the usual time-in-market advice to fit.
Putting the Refund to Work
The retroactive DTC lump sum is a one-time chance to fund the plan, not the wish list. Ray treats it as seed capital, not spending money.
Cash You Can Reach
Ray keeps care money liquid. He sizes an accessible reserve around his health needs and learns what not to lock away.
The Asset Test, Quietly
Where Ray holds money can decide whether he keeps AISH. TFSA and RDSP assets are exempt; non-registered investments may count, so structure matters.
The 10-Year Catch
The RDSP holdback makes grants and bonds from the last ten years repayable on withdrawal. It's lighter for Ray, but the rule still shapes his timing.
Build With What's Left
Ray assembles the plan: RDSP, TFSA, a conservative pool, and a liquid reserve, all AISH-safe. A modest plan that grows something is the win.