Investment 101
Understand accounts, investments, risk, diversification, fees and how a portfolio fits a goal.
Build your foundationFinancial information, in plain language
Understand the decision before you make it.
A practical guide for Canadian families—covering investing, RESPs, insurance and the financial accounts that often shape major life decisions.
Choose a topicWhat would you like to explore?
Invest moneySaving & investingSave for schoolRESPs & grantsProtect my familyLife insuranceCompare your choicesWhat it does · what it costs
Start with the subject that matters today.
Each section covers the basics, explains common terms and includes tools for exploring simple scenarios.
RESP 101
See how education savings, government grants, time and withdrawals can work together.
Explore education savingsInsurance 101
See what life insurance is designed to protect and how common policy types differ.
Compare coverage typesStart with a real question
Frequently asked questions.
Use these common questions as a starting point.
01What is the difference between a TFSA, RRSP and FHSA?
A TFSA generally offers tax-free growth and withdrawals, but contributions are not deductible. An RRSP may provide a tax deduction, while withdrawals are generally taxable. An FHSA combines a potential contribution deduction with tax-free qualifying withdrawals for a first home, subject to eligibility and contribution limits.
02How should time horizon and risk affect an investment mix?
A longer timeframe may provide more opportunity to recover from market declines, while money needed soon may require greater stability and liquidity. The investment mix should also reflect both your comfort with market changes and your financial ability to withstand a loss.
03How much could time and grants add to an RESP?
Eligible contributions may receive the basic CESG, generally 20% up to the applicable annual and lifetime limits. Starting earlier also gives contributions, grants and potential investment growth more time to compound. Actual results depend on contributions, grants received, fees, returns and withdrawals.
04How are term, whole life and universal life different?
Term insurance provides coverage for a selected period and usually has no cash value. Whole life is permanent coverage that may include guaranteed cash values. Universal life combines permanent insurance with an investment account whose costs, funding and performance can affect the policy.
05What factors influence a starting life insurance estimate?
Common considerations include income replacement, debts, mortgage obligations, education or childcare costs, final expenses, existing savings and insurance, survivor income, the length of the need and the amount that can be maintained comfortably.
Sources matter
Open resources Use this site as a starting point—not the final authority.
Rules and eligibility can change. The Resources page connects you directly to Government of Canada, regulators and trusted public organizations so important details can be verified at the source.