Rocky Credit Union - Ownership, Community, Innovation

Explore options for your pension funds with a Locked-in Retirement Account (LIRA)

How does a LIRA work?

LIRAs are typically established when you leave an organization and want to take the pension money you've accumulated with you.
Unlike an RRSP, you cannot contribute/add new money to a LIRA.
Depending on the jurisdiction the pension was registered in, LIRAs can be managed federally or under provincially regulated pension laws.
Like an RRSP, a LIRA can hold your various investment products or securities such as GICs, cash, bonds, stocks, mutual funds, & more for long term tax-deferred growth.
You can't make withdrawals from a LIRA. It must be converted into a LIF first. LIRA's can be converted to a LIF as soon as you turn 55 and must be converted to a LIF by the end of the year you turn 71.
Once a LIRA is converted to a LIF, there is little flexibility on annual withdrawals; there is a minimum and maximum withdrawal based on your age and the size of the portfolio at the beginning of the year.

About the LIRA

Unlocking a LIRA

LIRAs can be unlocked in some circumstances.

If it's under Alberta legislation, up to 50% of the LIRA can be unlocked after age 50.
Up to 100% can be unlocked if facing financial hardship or a shortened life expectancy. This can increase the flexibility on the timing of withdrawals.

Converting to LIF or RLIF

If you have a LIRA or Locked-In RRSP, you can convert to a Life Income Fund (LIF), or Locked-In Retirement Income Fund (LRIF), depending on the province you live in.

After a minimum age, you can start to receive income from the LIRA by converting it into a LIF, LRIF/RLIF, or buying a life annuity.
While there are rules governing minimum and maximum withdrawals every year, a LIF/LRIF/RLIF keeps you in control of how your money is invested, letting you choose from GIC's, mutual funds, segregated funds, and more.

Withdrawals

You can't make withdrawals from a LIRA.

First, it must be converted into a LIF.
LIRAs can be converted to a LIF as soon as you reach age 55 and must be converted to a LIF by the end of the year you turn 71.

Manage Your Wealth

Sometimes, your financial needs go beyond traditional banking products. Choose to invest your money in Mutual Funds or other securities. Through Aviso Wealth professionals at Rocky Credit Union, we can provide access to a comprehensive line of investments, including a variety of mutual fund companies.

Learn more