Infographic
US dividends: what crosses the border in each Canadian account
TFSA, RRSP, RRIF, RESP, FHSA and non-registered: how much of a $1,000 US dividend a Canadian keeps after US withholding under the Canada–US tax treaty.
In one paragraphOn a $1,000 US dividend, an RRSP or RRIF generally keeps $1,000 because the treaty exempts retirement plans. A TFSA, RESP or FHSA keeps $850, and the $150 is lost. A non-registered account also has $150 withheld but can usually claim it back as a foreign tax credit.
A $1,000 US dividend, by Canadian account
Go deeper
- US withholding tax calculator for Canadians
- US dividends in a TFSA: why 15% is withheld
- US dividends in an RRSP or RRIF: no US withholding
Education, not advice. This site does not recommend, rate or rank any security and does not know your full situation. Check tax details with the CRA or IRS, or a qualified professional. Read the disclaimer.
Primary sources
- Canada–United States Tax Convention, consolidated text (Department of Finance Canada)
- IRS — Private letter ruling 200810013 (RRSPs and RRIFs under Article XXI(2) of the treaty)
- IRS — Publication 515, Withholding of Tax on Nonresident Aliens and Foreign Entities
- CRA — Line 40500: Federal foreign tax credit (Form T2209)
Rules checked October 31, 2026. Tax rules and rates change; confirm current details on the official pages above.