WealthRRIF minimum withdrawal rates, factors and examples
The annual minimum is the beginning-of-year fair market value of the RRIF multiplied by an age factor. That factor rises gradually and reaches 20% at age 95.
Published July 17, 2026 · By the WealthWise team · Official sources reviewed
Prescribed factor table
| Age | Rate | Age | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 71 | 5.28% | 84 | 8.08% |
| 72 | 5.40% | 85 | 8.51% |
| 73 | 5.53% | 86 | 8.99% |
| 74 | 5.67% | 87 | 9.55% |
| 75 | 5.82% | 88 | 10.21% |
| 76 | 5.98% | 89 | 10.99% |
| 77 | 6.17% | 90 | 11.92% |
| 78 | 6.36% | 91 | 13.06% |
| 79 | 6.58% | 92 | 14.49% |
| 80 | 6.82% | 93 | 16.34% |
| 81 | 7.08% | 94 | 18.79% |
| 82 | 7.38% | 95 and older | 20.00% |
| 83 | 7.71% |
The table shows CRA’s current general factors. Different rules may apply to certain qualifying older RRIFs; verify the contract and the institution’s calculation.
Examples using a $300,000 RRIF
| Age used | Calculation | Annual minimum |
|---|---|---|
| 65 | $300,000 × [1 ÷ (90 − 65)] | $12,000 |
| 75 | $300,000 × 5.82% | $17,460 |
| 80 | $300,000 × 6.82% | $20,460 |
| 90 | $300,000 × 11.92% | $35,760 |
The calculation uses the value at the beginning of the year, not the value at each payment date. A market rise or fall during the year therefore does not automatically recalculate the established minimum.
Annuitant age or spouse age
When the RRIF is established, the annuitant may elect to use their own age or the age of a spouse or common-law partner. Choosing a younger spouse generally lowers the factor and annual minimum.
The election must be made before the first payment and normally remains in effect. It does not transfer account ownership or change who reports the withdrawal.
What the minimum does not tell you
The legal minimum is not a spending recommendation and does not measure portfolio sustainability. A larger withdrawal may be needed for living costs; the minimum may already be more than required. Tax, other income, allocation, liquidity and horizon all belong in the plan.
No withholding is normally applied to the minimum portion, but the withdrawal is generally taxable. The RRIF withdrawal FAQ explains minimum and excess treatment.
Turn the factor into an income plan
The table gives the legal minimum; related guides connect it with the portfolio and tax picture.
Sources and method
Rules, limits and fees change. The primary sources below were reviewed on July 17, 2026. Always verify the official version before acting.
- CRA — prescribed factor table — official rates from age 71 to 95 and older
- CRA — minimum amount from a RRIF — formula, beginning-of-year value and age
- CRA — receiving income from a RRIF — payments and tax treatment
Frequently asked questions
Which RRIF balance is used for the minimum?
The fair market value of the RRIF at the beginning of the year is multiplied by the applicable factor.
Does the rate change if markets fall during the year?
The age factor does not change, and the minimum established from the beginning-of-year value is not normally recalculated for the decline.
Can I withdraw only the minimum?
Yes, if it covers your needs and meets account terms. The minimum is not a personalized retirement-income recommendation.
Why does the formula before age 71 use 90?
The general prescribed formula is 1 ÷ (90 − age). At age 71 and older, the fixed table factors apply.
Place the withdrawal in the complete portfolio
See assets, income and accounts together to prepare liquidity without losing sight of overall allocation.