Fact Sheet - Creditor Protection

Reviewed November 3, 2026. Figures are for 2026 unless stated otherwise.

There are some misconceptions on whether RRSPs are creditor protected. So, let's set the record straight. In some Canadian provinces such as Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, RRSP assets may not be protected from the claims of creditors unless they are held under an insurance contract issued by a life insurer and there is a designated beneficiary on record with the insurer.

Moreover, even where RRSPs enjoy protection under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, that protection does not apply to contributions made in the 12 months prior to the bankruptcy date.

By contrast, money payable under a registered pension plan, such as the INTEGRIS PPP®, is generally exempt from seizure under provincial pension legislation, both in the normal course of business and in bankruptcy, subject to limited exceptions such as family support orders.