Segregated Funds
Market-linked investment growth with built-in protections — including a death benefit guarantee and creditor protection unavailable through mutual funds.
What Are Segregated Funds?
Segregated funds are investment products offered exclusively by life insurance companies. They function similarly to mutual funds — your money is pooled and invested in a diversified portfolio — but they include unique protections that mutual funds cannot offer.
Key Protections
Maturity Guarantee
At the end of the guarantee period (typically 10 years), you are guaranteed to receive back at least 75% or 100% of your deposits — regardless of market performance.
Death Benefit Guarantee
If you pass away, your beneficiaries receive at least 75% or 100% of your deposits (whichever guarantee you selected) — even if markets have declined.
Creditor Protection
When a family member is named as beneficiary, segregated fund assets may be protected from creditors in the event of bankruptcy or lawsuit. This is a significant advantage for business owners and professionals.
Bypasses Probate
Proceeds pass directly to your named beneficiary outside your estate — faster, private, and avoiding probate fees.
How They Compare to Mutual Funds
| Feature | Segregated Funds | Mutual Funds |
|---|---|---|
| Principal guarantee | Yes (75–100%) | No |
| Death benefit guarantee | Yes | No |
| Creditor protection | Possible | No |
| Bypasses probate | Yes | No |
| RRSP/TFSA/RESP eligible | Yes | Yes |
| MER (cost) | Slightly higher | Lower |
Who Should Consider Segregated Funds?
- Business owners or professionals with creditor exposure
- Retirees who want market participation with downside protection
- Anyone concerned about passing assets to beneficiaries efficiently
- Investors within 10 years of retirement
Maria is licensed to offer segregated funds and can walk you through the guarantee options and fund selections available.
Why choose an independent broker in Calgary for Segregated Funds?
As an independent broker based in Calgary, Maria Chekmareva works for you—not the financial institutions. By comparing Segregated Funds options from over 15 top Canadian providers, we ensure you get a savings strategy tailored to your specific financial goals, all at no extra cost to you.
Ready to explore Segregated Funds options?
Maria offers free, no-obligation consultations to help you build the right savings strategy.