How is TFSA contribution room calculated in Canada?
Your TFSA room accumulates every year you are 18 or older and a Canadian resident, starting from 2009 when the TFSA was introduced. Each year has a set dollar limit — ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 — and any unused room carries forward indefinitely. Withdrawals also add back to your room the following January 1st. The CRA tracks your room in My Account, but this calculator gives you a clear breakdown so you know exactly where you stand before contributing.
Click any year to mark it as non-resident (excludes it from your room). All years are included by default.
Your contributions exceed your available room by $0. The CRA charges a 1% per month penalty on the excess amount. Double-check your numbers or contact the CRA immediately.
| Year | Annual Limit | Eligible? | Room Added | Cumulative Room |
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⚠️ The Transfer Trap
Moving money between TFSA accounts at different institutions is NOT a transfer — it's a withdrawal and re-contribution. Do this wrong and you'll over-contribute and face CRA penalties. Always request an institution-to-institution direct transfer instead.
📅 Withdrawals Come Back
Money you withdraw from your TFSA in 2025 doesn't come back until January 1, 2026 — not immediately. Plan large re-contributions accordingly to avoid accidentally over-contributing.
🇨🇦 Non-Residents Beware
If you contribute to a TFSA while a non-resident of Canada, the CRA charges a 1% per month tax on each contribution for every month it stays in the account. Existing room does not carry over during non-resident years.
✅ Verify with CRA
This calculator gives you a strong estimate, but your exact room depends on your full contribution and withdrawal history. Always confirm your available room in CRA My Account before making large contributions.