The 360

Changes to Nova Scotia LIFs and LIRAs

Written by Investia | March 27, 2025 2:00:00 Z PM

The Government of Nova Scotia has changed the rules governing the unlocking of life income funds (LIFs) and locked-in retirement accounts (LIRAs).

As such, effective April 1, 2025, the following changes will come into effect for Nova Scotia LIFs and LIRAs held by your clients:

  • Unlocking of 50% of retirement funds when transferring to a LIF at age 55.

  • Possibility of unlocking  of small amounts (50% of the year’s maximum pensionable earnings (YMPE)) at 55 instead of 65.

  • Elimination of temporary income provisions for LIFs established after April 1, 2025.

  • Easier unlocking of funds in the event of reduced life expectancy or non-residence in Canada.

Should you have any questions or require additional information, please contact our Client Services team, by email at investia@investia.ca, by phone at 1-888-684-5548, or use the chatbot feature available on the Advisor Centre.