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You can transfer qualified investments, such as stocks,  bonds or mutual funds from a non-registered account to your RRSP as a transfer “in kind” providing there is sufficient contribution room.

This has tax consequences, however. You are considered to have sold your investments at their fair market value and will have to report any resulting gain on your tax return. You can claim an RRSP deduction equal to the fair market value of the investments transferred to your RRSP. If the fair market value results in a loss, in order to claim the loss on your tax return, you must first sell the investments and then contribute the cash proceeds to your RRSP.

Visit GetSmarterAboutMoney.ca to learn about RRSPs and RRSP transfers. Speak with a registered financial representative or tax professional for advice.