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RRSP Contribution Room Calculator

Work out your exact RRSP deduction limit: 18% of last year's income up to the annual cap, minus pension adjustment, plus carry-forward. Free, instant, no signup.

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18% of earned income
Annual maximum ()
This year's new room
Less: pension adjustment
Plus: carry-forward room
Total contribution room
Estimated tax refund if maxed

How RRSP Contribution Room Works

Every year the CRA grants you new RRSP room worth 18% of your prior-year earned income, capped at an annual dollar maximum. For the 2026 tax year that cap is $33,810 (up from $32,490 in 2025). If you're in a workplace pension, your pension adjustment reduces the new room. Finally, any room you never used in past years carries forward and stacks on top.

The formula
Room = min(18% × prior income, annual max)
    − pension adjustment
    + unused carry-forward room

The single most reliable place to confirm your exact room is your CRA Notice of Assessment or CRA My Account — it already includes every prior year's carry-forward. This calculator is ideal for planning a contribution before your NOA updates, or projecting next year's room.

A word of caution: over-contributing by more than the $2,000 lifetime buffer triggers a penalty of 1% per month on the excess. When in doubt, contribute a little under your calculated room.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 2026 RRSP limit?

$33,810 — the full amount applies only if your 2025 earned income was at least $187,833. Otherwise your room is 18% of that income.

What counts as earned income?

Employment income, self-employment net income, and net rental income — not investment income, pensions, or capital gains.

What is a pension adjustment?

The value of pension benefits you earned at work (T4 box 52). It reduces your RRSP room dollar-for-dollar so total retirement saving stays fair across plans.

Does unused room expire?

No — it carries forward indefinitely. Your total available room is on your latest CRA Notice of Assessment.

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