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Why Topping Up Your TFSA Could Be Your Easiest Path to $1,000,000 and Living off Passive Income for Life

The TFSA is far more than a savings account—it’s a powerful wealth-building tool. With tax-free growth, flexible withdrawals, and diverse investment options, it can turn consistent contributions into over $1M through compounding. Many Canadians miss out by underutilizing it, but maximizing contributions creates lasting financial freedom and passive income.

by
Afsha Butt

When most Canadians think of a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), they picture a simple savings account with a little interest. But the truth is, your TFSA is one of the most powerful wealth building tools you have if you use it strategically.

At Wealthverse, we believe it’s not about working harder or chasing a bigger paycheque. It’s time to buy back your time and start making smarter moves with the money you already have. And your TFSA is one of the best places to start.

The Power of Compounding Inside a TFSA

Here’s why the TFSA is such a game-changer:

  • Tax-free growth: Every dollar of interest, dividends, or capital gains earned inside your TFSA is yours to keep. No tax bill waiting at the end of the year.

  • Flexibility: Withdraw funds anytime without penalty and re-contribute that amount in future years.

  • Investment options: Your TFSA isn’t just for cash. It can hold ETFs, stocks, mutual funds, GICs, and more.

  • Contribution room rolls forward: Haven’t maxed out your TFSA? That space isn’t lost. It accumulates every year.

This combination is what makes the TFSA a quiet millionaire-maker.

How $100,000 Can Grow Into $1,000,000

Let’s look at the math.

If you invested $100,000 today and added just $1,500 per year, in 20 years you could have more than $1,000,000 all tax-free.

That’s the beauty of compounding. Inside a TFSA, your money works harder because you keep every dollar of growth.

As you can see in the example above:

  • Starting Amount: $100,000

  • Total Contributions over 20 years: $360,000

  • Total Growth (interest earned): $688,273

  • End Balance: $1,148,273

And this isn’t just a number on a chart. If your portfolio earned an average return of 7-10% annually, a $1,000,000 TFSA could potentially generate $70,000–$100,000 per year in passive income from interest, dividends, and growth without touching the principal.

That’s financial freedom.

Why Many Canadians Miss Out

The most common mistakes we see are:

  • Waiting too long to contribute. Every year lost is compounding you can’t get back.

  • Thinking of the TFSA as “just savings.” This mindset means missing out on investment opportunities.

  • Not maxing out. Thinking it's only a small benefit and leaving free tax free growth on the table that can turn into a 1M+ with minimal effort.

Your TFSA isn’t just about setting aside money. You need to create a structure where your wealth can grow without extra effort, extra hours, or extra tax.

Key Insights on the TFSA

Insight

Why It Matters

Tax-free growth and flexible withdrawals

Maximizes your investments without penalizing access or timing

Roll-forward of contribution room

You never lose unused space, so you can catch up when you're ready

Broader investment options

Not just savings, think growth via stocks, ETFs, and more

Estate and joint planning benefits

Helpful for long-term family and legacy planning

Ease of access and strategic use

Use it for emergencies, goals, or wealth-building without tax drag

Action Step

If you haven’t maxed out your TFSA, now is the time. Every year you delay, you give compounding less time to work its magic.

At Wealthverse, we’ll review your contribution room, walk through top-up options, and create a plan that actually aligns with your goals.

Your future self will thank you.

Your partner in wealth,
Afsha Butt
CEO & Founder, Wealthverse

Disclaimer: This blog is provided for educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized financial, tax, or investment advice. The information shared is general in nature and may not be suitable for your individual circumstances. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Any projections or income examples (including passive income estimates) are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. We encourage you to consult directly with a Wealthverse financial consultant before making any investment or financial decisions.

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