Reliable income
CPP, OAS and pensions may cover part of monthly spending, but start dates and indexing can differ.
Focused decision guide
How do I build a retirement paycheque from pensions, benefits and savings?
Retirement income often arrives from several places at different times. A timeline can show how pensions, benefits, work and savings combine into one monthly picture.
Understand the choice
What changes—and what you give up.
Flexible savings
RRSP, RRIF, TFSA and other savings can fill gaps, but withdrawals depend on the portfolio and account rules.
Changing needs
Spending and income can change over time. A useful plan keeps the pieces visible rather than treating one first-year number as permanent.
Before comparing
The assumptions that matter most.
- The monthly amount and start age for each income source
- Whether each pension or benefit is indexed
- The spending target in today’s dollars
- Taxes, survivor income and required withdrawals that may need separate review
Test the question
Use the guide with a planning tool.
Begin with estimates. Mark each source as estimated, statement-based or confirmed as better information becomes available.