Earn Steady Returns with Guaranteed Security
Looking for a stable, low-risk investment with guaranteed returns? GIAs are a secure way to grow your savings without the market volatility.
GIAs are fixed-income investment products offered by insurance companies. They work similarly to GICs (Guaranteed Investment Certificates), but come with added advantages — especially when it comes to estate planning, tax treatment, and flexibility.
With GIAs, you get:
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A guaranteed rate of return for a set term (usually 1 to 10 years)
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Principal protection - your deposit is 100% guaranteed
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No market risk - your investment value doesn’t fluctuate
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Access to non-registered, RRSP, TFSA, RRIF, or corporate account types
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Potential probate bypass and creditor protection (when structured properly)
Why Choose GIAs Over GICs or Bonds?
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Guaranteed returns: Know exactly what you’ll earn - no surprises
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Estate benefits: Name a beneficiary and avoid probate delays and fees
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Creditor protection: In many cases, insurance-based GIAs offer more protection than bank-issued GICs
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Tax flexibility: Options for interest to be paid annually or deferred until maturity
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Great for corporations: Use retained earnings to earn interest while preserving capital
Are GIAs Right for You?
You may benefit from GIAs if you:
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Are a conservative investor who prioritizes capital preservation
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Want a secure investment with a guaranteed return
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Prefer low or no risk without tying up money long-term
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Are looking to diversify outside of market-based products
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Are a business owner or incorporated professional with retained earnings
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Want probate-free estate transfer and creditor protection
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Get your answers
Unlike GICs, GIAs are provided by insurance companies rather than banks and typically offer estate planning benefits such as probate bypass and creditor protection.
No, GIAs are not covered by CDIC. However, they’re backed by the insurance company, and provincial regulators (like Assuris) provide protection if the insurer fails, typically up to $100,000 per contract.
Yes, GIAs can be held in registered or non-registered accounts, including RRSPs, RRIFs, and TFSAs.
Most providers offer terms from 1 to 10 years, with fixed or laddered strategies depending on your goals.
Some contracts may offer early withdrawal options with penalties. Others may be locked in until maturity
Yes, many corporate clients use GIAs as a stable, interest-earning solution for retained earnings or short-term capital preservation.
Still Have Questions?
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. While we strive to ensure that the content is accurate and up to date, Safe Horizon Financial makes no guarantees regarding its applicability to your individual circumstances. Readers should consult qualified professionals (such as a licensed financial advisor, accountant, or lawyer) before making decisions based on the information presented. Safe Horizon Financial is not responsible for any actions taken or not taken as a result of this content.