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If you are married or in a common-law relationship, you may choose to direct some or all of your RRSP contribution to a spousal plan. You still get the tax deduction, but the plan is registered in your spouse's name. Your contributions to a spousal plan do not affect your spouse's contribution limit to his or her own plan.

Why Would You Want to Contribute to a Spousal Plan instead of Your Own?

If you and your spouse earn different levels of income, a spousal RRSP may be an effective way to "split income" over the long term. To do so, the spouse who is expected to have a higher level of income at retirement should make the contribution to a spousal RRSP. This will allow you to build a nest egg that will provide each of you with a source of income in retirement and an overall reduction in taxes.