Overseas Super & Pensions 2025 – Part 3 - NZ Classification of US and Canadian Retirement Schemes
1.25 CPD Hours
Description
Gain practical insights into the tax treatment of US and Canadian retirement schemes for clients through practical examples covering key features of schemes including, US Traditional and Roth IRAs, and Canadian RRSPs and RRIFs. We will apply the articles of the relevant Double Tax Agreement and discuss strategies to optimize tax outcomes across both countries.
Are you an accountant or tax adviser with clients holding US or Canadian retirement schemes—such as Roth or Traditional IRAs, RRSPs, or RRIFs? Whether your clients are recent migrants or long-term expats, understanding the New Zealand tax treatment of these schemes is critical—and presents a valuable opportunity to provide informed, strategic advice.
In this webinar, we’ll break down:
- The key features of each type of retirement scheme
- How these schemes are classified and taxed under relevant double tax agreements
- The distinction between pension income and lump sum withdrawals under NZ domestic law
- How pension payments and lump sums are taxed in New Zealand, and what exemptions may apply
- Strategies for transferring or withdrawing funds in a tax-efficient way
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Attendees will gain a clear understanding of:
- The core features of common US and Canadian retirement schemes, including Roth and Traditional IRAs, RRSPs, and RRIFs
- How New Zealand classifies and taxes withdrawals and transfers—under both domestic legislation and applicable Double Tax Agreements
- Practical planning strategies to help clients minimise tax exposure and optimise long-term outcomes
SUITED TO
Tax specialists and accountants at a client-facing and review level (managers and above).
PRESENTER
Alex Cull, Partner, Greenhawk Chartered Accountants
With 15 years of tax expertise, Alex has built a career spanning the Big Four, Inland Revenue, and mid-tier firms. Now a tax partner at Greenhawk, Alex provides guidance to accountants, SME businesses, and high-net-worth individuals.