Canadians Focused On Saving And Paying Off Debt To Prepare For Retirement, According To RBC Poll

23 ^rd Annual RRSP survey finds twice as many younger Canadians intend to maximize their RRSP contributions for the 2012 tax year

TORONTO, Dec. 12, 2012 /CNW/ - While the top activity for preparing for retirement remains saving money (70 per cent), Canadians not yet retired are taking a more holistic approach and are also focused on paying off debt (66 per cent), according to the 23rd Annual RBC RRSP Poll. Figuring out what regular expenses would be (45 per cent) and building up an investment portfolio (39 per cent) were the next most common activities cited in preparation for retirement.

Balancing these competing financial priorities remains a challenge for many Canadians. This year's study found that more Canadians are worried about balancing saving for immediate priorities versus saving for the longer term (81 per cent in 2012 compared to 77 per cent in 2011).

"Balancing those short and long terms goals can be tricky," said Amalia Costa, head, Retirement Strategies, RBC. "This is where having a financial plan, preferably one that is documented, and working with a financial advisor can help you prioritize your goals, discuss your options and chart a course of action to realize those goals."

While it is advisable for many Canadians to maximize their RRSP contributions, just over one-in-four (27 per cent) Canadians with an RRSP plan to do so for the 2012 tax year. Younger Canadians are breaking this trend: twice as many Canadians between the ages of 18 and 34 with an RRSP say they will contribute the maximum allowable amount this year (32 per cent in 2012 compared to 16 per cent in 2011).

"When planning for retirement, it's important to start as early as possible. It is great to see so many younger Canadians doing just that," added Costa. "One of the most effective ways to build your retirement nest egg is an automatic contribution plan. It's an easy and highly effective way to create that savings habit by setting aside funds on a regular basis. This is done automatically - you don't have to think about it and often, you won't even miss it."

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