Naming beneficiaries and successors might seem simple, but one wrong designation can lead to tax headaches, probate delays, or unfair outcomes for your heirs. In this episode, Joe Curry explains how to properly name beneficiaries across your RRSPs, RRIFs, TFSAs, and non-registered accounts — and how to avoid common estate planning pitfalls that could cost your family thousands.

Key Takeaways

Beneficiary vs. Successor — know the difference. A beneficiary receives the account value after death, while a successor (available only to spouses) continues the account tax-free and without interruption.

RRSPs and RRIFs carry hidden tax traps. Non-spouse beneficiaries may get the full payout, but the estate — and the executor — must handle the tax bill.

TFSAs can pass on tax-free growth — but only with the right setup. Naming your spouse as a successor holder preserves the tax-free status; naming them as a simple beneficiary does not.

Non-registered accounts and property often go through probate. Joint ownership or trust structures can help avoid delays and additional costs.

Keep designations up to date. Life changes — and so should your beneficiaries. Ensure account designations align with your will to avoid confusion or accidental disinheritance.

Resources

Matthews and Associates – Book a Beneficiary Review Call

Retirement Planning Simplified Blog

Related RPS Podcast Episodes:

Ep 92 – Paying for Promises: An Evidence-Based Look at Segregated Funds with Mark McGrath

Ep 110 – Estate Planning Fails: Real Stories of What Can Go Wrong with Ellie Muir (Clear Estate)

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About Joe Curry

Joseph Curry, also known as Joe, is the host of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Canada's fastest-growing retirement planning podcast, where he provides accessible, in-depth financial advice. As the owner and lead financial planner at Matthews + Associates in Peterborough, Ontario, Joe and his team are committed to helping people secure both financial stability and purpose in retirement. His mission is to ensure people can sleep soundly knowing they have a solid plan in place, covering both financial and lifestyle aspects of retirement. A Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, he values true wealth as more than money—it's about creating meaningful experiences with loved ones and fostering opportunities for the future.

You can reach out to Joe through:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curryjoe

Website: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/

Website: https://matthewsandassociates.ca/vsl/

About Retirement Planning Simplified

Founded in 2022, its mission is to empower people to plan for retirement confidently, focusing not only on finances but also on a meaningful life. RPS wants everyone to have access to simple, reliable tools that reflect their values and priorities, helping them create True Wealth—the freedom to do what they love with those they love. By simplifying retirement planning and aligning it with the retiree's purpose, RPS aims to support building a retirement that feels fulfilling and secure.

To know more about RPS you can visit the links below:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retirement-planning-simplified/
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• Podcast/Blog: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/blog
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningsimplified

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed are those of Joseph Curry, a registrant of Aligned Capital Partners Inc. (ACPI), and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. This video is for informational purposes only and not intended to be personalized investment advice. The views expressed are opinions of Joseph Curry and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. Content is prepared for general circulation and information contained does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any investment fund, security or other product or service.