We are conducting routine maintenance on portfolio manager. We'll be back up as soon as possible. Thanks for your patience.

What happens if I overcontributed to my RRSP?

Gena Katz, a chartered accountant and principal with Ernst and Young, has the answer.

Gena Katz 18 February, 2003 | 2:00PM
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Dear Expert:

I had RRSP contributions made automatically from my bank account, but somehow I overcontributed by $1,900 during the past year. What happens now?

Expert Opinion:

If this is your only RRSP overcontribution, nothing happens. An individual is permitted to have a cumulative RRSP overcontribution balance of up to $2,000 without penalty. Overcontributions beyond this level are subject to a penalty tax of 1% per month as long as they remain in the plan. Although you cannot claim your overcontribution as a deduction for this year, you may use it toward your contribution room for next year.

To find out how much an RRSP contribution may save you, try Morningstar's RRSP Calculator.

Do you have a question?

All Ask the Expert questions are read and considered. Unfortunately we can't provide individual responses or respond to every question. Please note that questions about specific securities cannot be considered. Click here to Ask the Expert.


No statement in this article should be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell securities or to provide investment advice or individual financial planning. Morningstar Canada does not provide specific portfolio advice and recommends the use of a qualified financial planner when appropriate.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

About Author

Gena Katz

Gena Katz  

© Copyright 2024 Morningstar, Inc. All rights reserved.

Terms of Use        Privacy Policy       Disclosures        Accessibility