RESP (Registered Education Savings Plan) is designed to help save for children’s post-secondary education.
Contributions made to an RESP are not tax-deductible, but the investment earnings within the account grow tax-free until they are withdrawn.
The government also provides certain incentives, such as Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG), which matches a portion of the contributions made to the account, up to a maximum of $500 a year per child.
When the beneficiary is ready to pursue post-secondary education, the funds can be withdrawn tax-free to pay for tuition, books, and other eligible expenses. If the funds are not used for education purposes, the investment earnings are subject to tax and a penalty.