Whats the difference between an RSP and a RIF?
The major difference between the two savings products is that you cannot contribute to a RIF as you did into your RSP. Instead, the money you've been contributing into your RSP is transferred to a RIF to be used as income in the year you turn 71. The year after you turn 71, you will begin to receive RIF Payment Amounts, which will be taxed by the government as income. You can withdraw as much or as little as you'd like on top of the annual minimum required by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), yet, these amount are subject to withholding taxes. However, you'll have the flexibility of accessing your retirement funds when you need a little extra every now and then.