The Empire Life Insurance Co. is now accepting applications for Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs) now so clients can start making contributions on Jan. 1, when the new savings vehicle is officially open to Canadians, the company announced Wednesday.

“We think we will see a significant amount of interest in TFSAs in the next two to three months,” said Jim Gibson, director, retail wealth marketing, in a release.

While Gibson predicts TFSAs will be popular with pre-retirees who are looking to supplement their RRSPs, he is hoping advisors and clients will explore the many uses of TFSAs.

“The biggest challenge is education,” said Gibson, who cites two recent surveys indicating that 40% to 45% of Canadians still don’t know much about TFSAs.

“Our goal is to put as much information in the hands of our advisors and clients now so that our clients understand the many benefits of these accounts and will invest early.”

IE