Early Retirement Healthcare in Canada – What Are Our Options?
The article examines how early retirees in British Columbia can bridge the gaps left by the province’s universal Medical Service Plan, which excludes prescription drugs, dental, vision, and paramedical services. It outlines three primary strategies: self‑funding eligible expenses, leveraging government programs such as Fair PharmaCare and the Canadian Dental Care Plan, and purchasing private insurance, including converting employer group plans within a 90‑day window. The author estimates that a combination of plan conversion and modest self‑funding could keep annual out‑of‑pocket health costs around $4,000, plus a cash reserve for unexpected expenses. The piece emphasizes proactive budgeting and tax‑credit tracking to avoid surprise costs in early retirement.
Tax Strategies for Dividend Investors in Canada
The article breaks down how dividend income is taxed in Canada, emphasizing the distinction between eligible and non‑eligible dividends and the impact of the gross‑up and dividend tax credit system. It outlines how foreign dividends, especially from the U.S., face...
Does It Make Sense to Build a Dividend Portfolio to Generate Steady & Reliable Monthly Dividend Income?
The article examines whether constructing a dividend portfolio that delivers steady monthly cash flow is worthwhile. It outlines the psychological comfort of predictable income but warns that relying on REITs and income trusts can concentrate risk and limit growth. The...
How to Track Your Dividend Portfolio Beyond Income: A Holistic Approach for Dividend Investors
Dividend investors often fixate on monthly cash payouts, but that narrow view can hide stagnant or declining portfolio value. A holistic tracking method adds portfolio market value, current yield, and total return to the traditional dividend‑income metric. By comparing Yield...