Cashable GICs provide three main advantages:
- Principal Protection: Your investment is secure, safeguarding your funds and guaranteeing your principal’s return at the end of the term.
- Fixed Interest Rate: You’re guaranteed a consistent return on your investment.
- Coverage by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC): Up to $100,000 per depositor is protected, offering peace of mind in the rare event of bank failure, in accordance with CDIC’s guidelines.
In addition to their primary advantages, cashable GICs offer the significant benefit of allowing investors the option to access their funds before the end of the term. For example, CIBC offers a 1-year CIBC variable-rate GIC with an interest rate of 4.50%. With this GIC you can cash out your investment early without forfeiting the interest accrued, as long as it has been held in the GIC for at least 30 days.
This flexibility is a significant advantage, although it’s worth noting that higher interest rates are usually reserved for non-redeemable GICs. For example, rates for a one-year non-redeemable GIC can reach as high as 5.50%. See below for a comparison of redeemable and non-redeemable GIC rates:
Related: How Do Cashable and Redeemable GICs Work?
How to Get a Cashable GIC
Finding cashable GICs in Canada is straightforward, as they’re readily available from almost every major financial institution.
It’s important to dedicate some time researching the market to find the most attractive GIC interest rates. Both traditional banks with physical locations and online banking platforms offer cashable GICs. That being said, online banks tend to provide more competitive rates. Generally, cashable GICs can be conveniently purchased online, by phone or at a bank branch.
When selecting a bank for your GIC, prioritize institutions insured by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC). CDIC coverage offers an added layer of security for your investment, safeguarding your funds in the unlikely event of a bank failure up to $100,000.
Why Invest in Cashable GICs?
Cashable GICs offer a balance between earning a competitive interest rate, security and liquidity. They’re a good option if you need to save for a short-term goal or want the flexibility to access your funds if you need them. I’ve actually used cashable GICs as a great place to store my money as I saved for a significant purchase, including my house, my wedding and my car.
How Do You Buy a Cashable GIC?
You can buy a cashable GIC online, over the phone, or at a bank or credit union. The process is effectively the same as purchasing a regular GIC, where you must provide some personal identification information and then fund your account.
Pros and Cons of a Cashable GIC
Pros:
- Higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts
- Your principal investment is guaranteed
Cons:
- Lower interest rates than non-redeemable GICs
- Certain GICs have limited liquidity during the holding period
- Interest earned may be lower if withdrawn before maturity
- Access to funds only after the initial holding period